Diethylstilbestrol dilaurate

Diethylstilbestrol dilaurate is a synthetic, nonsteroidal estrogen medication and derivative of diethylstilbestrol (DES), which is specifically the dilaurate ester of DES. It was used in the past for a variety of medical conditions but is no longer marketed due to concerns over its safety profile, particularly its association with an increased risk of certain cancers.

Medical Uses

Diethylstilbestrol dilaurate was primarily used in hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms and in the management of prostate cancer. It functioned by mimicking the effects of natural estrogen in the body, which could help alleviate symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency or counteract the effects of testosterone in prostate cancer.

Mechanism of Action

As an estrogen, diethylstilbestrol dilaurate binds to and activates estrogen receptors throughout the body. This activation influences the transcription of genes that are regulated by estrogen, leading to the expression of estrogenic effects in various tissues. The dilaurate ester form of DES was designed to prolong the duration of action of the drug by slowing its metabolism and release into the bloodstream.

Side Effects

The use of diethylstilbestrol dilaurate, like other forms of DES, has been associated with a range of adverse effects. These include, but are not limited to, an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, thromboembolic events, and certain types of cancer, such as clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina and cervix in daughters exposed in utero. Other potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, and fluid retention.

Historical Aspects

Diethylstilbestrol dilaurate was part of the larger history of DES use, which spans several decades. DES was first synthesized in 1938 and was widely prescribed for a variety of conditions, including pregnancy support to prevent miscarriages. However, in the early 1970s, a link was established between prenatal DES exposure and an increased risk of vaginal and cervical cancer in female offspring, leading to a reevaluation of its safety and ultimately the discontinuation of its use in many applications.

Regulatory Status

Following the discovery of its association with severe adverse effects, the use of diethylstilbestrol dilaurate and other DES formulations has been heavily restricted or banned in many countries. Regulatory agencies have issued warnings and guidelines to limit the exposure to DES and its derivatives, focusing on the elimination of its use in pregnant women and reducing its application in other medical contexts.

See Also

• Estrogen
• Hormone therapy
• Prostate cancer
• Endocrine disruptor