Estramustine (Emcyt)

General information

Class/mechanism: Nornitrogen mustard (similar to mechlorethamine) linked to estradiol. The estradiol component helps the drug to be preferentially delivered to estrogen receptor-positive cells. The mustard component serves as an alkylator and causes DNA crosslinks. Treatment may result in elevated plasma levels of estradiol.
Route: PO
Extravasation: n/a

For conciseness and simplicity, HemOnc.org currently will focus on treatment regimens and not list information such as: renal/hepatic dose adjustments, metabolism (including CYP450), excretion, monitoring parameters (although this will be considered for checklists), or manufacturer. Instead, for the most current information, please refer to your preferred pharmacopeias such as Micromedex, Lexicomp, UpToDate (courtesy of Lexicomp), or the prescribing information.

Diseases for which it is used

• Prostate cancer

Patient drug information

• Estramustine (Emcyt) package insert
• Estramustine (Emcyt) patient drug information (Chemocare)
• Estramustine (Emcyt) patient drug information (UpToDate)

History of changes in FDA indication

• 1981-12-24: Initial FDA approval

History of changes in EMA indication

• 1971-09-02: EURD

Also known as

• Generic name: estramustine phosphate sodium
• Brand names: Emcyt, Estracit, Estram, Estramin, X-Trant