Side Effects of eflornithine: A Synthesis of Findings from 28 Studies

  1. Home
  2. Side Effects of eflornithine
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of eflornithine: A Synthesis of Findings from 28 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Side Effects of eflornithine: A Synthesis of Findings from 28 Studies", please consult your doctor.

For NLM copyright information, please see Link to NLM Copyright Page
PubMed data is obtained via Hugging Face Datasets: Link to DatasetPlease check the disclaimer.
This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Eflornithine is a drug that has shown promise as a chemopreventive agent. In a clinical trial involving 27 subjects, eflornithine was administered daily for 6 months to assess its safety and efficacy. 12 The trial determined that the highest nontoxic dose was 1600 mg/m2/day. This study and others have shown that eflornithine can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. 4 19 Animal studies have also demonstrated the effectiveness of eflornithine in preventing cancer development. 11 23 Eflornithine may also be beneficial in slowing down the progression of cancer in some patients. 25

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of eflornithine are mainly related to its mechanism of action. Eflornithine inhibits ornithine decarboxylase, a key enzyme in polyamine synthesis. Polyamines play a crucial role in cell growth and differentiation. While eflornithine inhibits polyamine synthesis to control cancer cell growth, it also has the potential to suppress normal cell growth, leading to various side effects. 27

Common Side Effects

Hearing Loss

The most commonly reported side effect of eflornithine is hearing loss. 12 9 3 18 5 6 This side effect is more likely to occur with higher doses of eflornithine. 12 27 Generally, hearing loss is reversible and improves after discontinuing eflornithine treatment. 12 22 5

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another side effect associated with eflornithine. 12 6 3 13 10 16 This side effect usually resolves after discontinuing the medication.

Fatigue

Eflornithine can lead to fatigue. 12

Joint Pain

Joint pain may occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 12

Insomnia

Eflornithine can cause insomnia. 12

Rash

Rash is another possible side effect associated with eflornithine. 12

Weight Loss

Eflornithine can cause weight loss. 6

Delayed Wound Healing

Delayed wound healing has been reported in some cases with eflornithine use. 6

Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia, a condition of low platelet count, may occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 11 9 2 3 18

Leukopenia

Leukopenia, a decrease in white blood cell count, can occur with eflornithine use. 9

Dyspnea

Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, may occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 9

Hemolysis

Hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells, can occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 9

Jaundice

Eflornithine can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes. 9

Hair Loss

Hair loss can occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 26 3 10

Anemia

Anemia, a deficiency in red blood cells, can occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 26 3 22

Seizures

Seizures can occur as a side effect of eflornithine. 18

Abnormal Liver Function Tests

Eflornithine can cause abnormal liver function tests. 18

Measures for Side Effects

Hearing Loss

Reducing the dose of eflornithine or temporarily stopping the medication may help alleviate hearing loss. 12 9

Diarrhea

Using antidiarrheal medications can help manage diarrhea symptoms. 6 3

Weight Loss

If you are concerned about weight loss, you should strive to maintain your weight through dietary adjustments and exercise. 6

Thrombocytopenia

If you are experiencing thrombocytopenia, it is essential to seek appropriate medical treatment under the guidance of your doctor. 11 9 2 3 18

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities

Numerous studies have shown that eflornithine can lead to various side effects, including hearing loss, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Differences

The specific types and severity of side effects associated with eflornithine can vary between studies. For instance, some studies have reported thrombocytopenia as a side effect, while others have not observed it.

Cautions for Real-Life Applications

Eflornithine is a promising drug for cancer prevention and treatment, but it is important to remember that it can cause side effects. If you are considering using eflornithine, it is crucial to discuss it with your doctor and adhere to their instructions regarding dosage and monitoring for any potential side effects.

Current Research Limitations

Research on eflornithine is still ongoing and not entirely comprehensive. Further research is needed, especially concerning the long-term effects of eflornithine use.

Future Research Directions

Future research on eflornithine should focus on the following areas:

  • Conduct further studies to understand the long-term effects of eflornithine use.
  • Research methods to mitigate the side effects of eflornithine.
  • Investigate the optimal dosage of eflornithine for various conditions.

Conclusion

Eflornithine is a promising drug for cancer prevention and treatment, but it is essential to be aware of its potential side effects. If you are considering eflornithine, discuss it with your doctor and follow their instructions carefully. Further research on eflornithine is needed to optimize its safety and efficacy.

Keywords
Benefit Keywords
Parasite eradication
Symptom improvement
Trypanosomiasis treatment
1
Cancer treatment
2
Parasite eradication
Sleeping sickness treatment
Symptom improvement
3
Inhibit ODC
4
Metastasis reduction
6
Adenoma recurrence prevention
7
Cancer Treatment
9
Sleeping sickness treatment
10
Cancer prevention
11
Cancer Prevention
12
Reduced side effects
Sustained delivery
13
Effective for pneumocystis
Effective for tuberculosis
14
Avoids side effects
Cures trypanosomiasis
Sustained release of DFMO
16
Cancer prevention
Shorter trials
Smaller sample size
17
Treats Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia
18
Bladder tumor treatment
Tumor reduction
19
Facial Hair Removal
20
Improved HAT
21
Sleeping sickness treatment
22
Cancer prevention
23
Hirsutism treatment
24
Melanoma Treatment
25
Improved central nervous system status
Rapid disappearance of trypanosomes
26
Inhibits carcinogen-induced cancer development
Suppresses polyamine contents
27
Treat sleeping sickness
28
Risk Keywords
Thrombocytopenia
1
Gastrointestinal side effects
Thrombocytopenia
2
Abdominal pain
Anemia
Diarrhea
3
Hearing loss
5
Delayed wound healing
Megakaryocyte reduction
Weight loss
6
Drug resistance
8
Dyspnea
Hearing Loss
Hemolysis
Jaundice
Leucopenia
Thrombocytopenia
9
Anemia
Diarrhea
Hearing loss
10
Ototoxicity
Thrombocytopenia
11
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Hearing Loss
Insomnia
Joint Pain
Rash
12
Controversial treatment for lymphoid interstitial pneumonia
Disappointing treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma
Side effects with pentamidine
14
Therapy failure
15
Bone marrow depression
Diarrhea
Hearing loss
Liver dysfunction
Seizures
18
Alopecia
19
Side effects
21
Anemia
Diarrhea
Hearing loss
22
Hearing Loss
Thrombocytopenia
25
Anaemia
Death
Diarrhoea
Hair loss
26
Ototoxicity
27
Literature analysis of 28 papers
Positive Content
22
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
4
Article Type
2
0
0
7
28
1.

African sleeping sickness in the United States. Successful treatment with eflornithine.

Author: PetruA M, AzimiP H, CumminsS K, SjoerdsmaA

Parasite eradication
Symptom improvement
Trypanosomiasis treatment
Thrombocytopenia

Eflornithine was used to treat a 3 1/2-year-old child with severe trypanosomiasis. Treatment led to dramatic recovery, with eradication of parasites, resolution of cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis, and improvement of clinical signs and symptoms. The only side effect was transient thrombocytopenia.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

2.

Phase I trial and pharmacokinetic studies of alpha-difluoromethylornithine--an inhibitor of polyamine biosynthesis.

Author: AbeloffM D, SlavikM, LukG D, GriffinC A, HermannJ, BlancO, SjoerdsmaA, BaylinS B

Cancer treatment
Gastrointestinal side effects
Thrombocytopenia

DFMO was well tolerated in patients with advanced solid tumors or lymphomas. Thrombocytopenia was the dose-limiting toxicity, and gastrointestinal side effects were also observed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Treatment of human late stage gambiense trypanosomiasis with alpha-difluoromethylornithine (eflornithine): efficacy and tolerance in 14 cases in Côte d'Ivoire.

Author: DouaF, BoaF Y, SchechterP J, MiézanT W, DiaiD, SanonS R, De RaadtP, HaegeleK D, SjoerdsmaA, KonianK

Parasite eradication
Sleeping sickness treatment
Symptom improvement
Abdominal pain
Anemia
Diarrhea

Eflornithine, a polyamine biosynthesis inhibitor, was used to treat 14 patients with late-stage gambiense sleeping sickness, including 12 refractory to melarsoprol. Treatment resulted in rapid trypanosome disappearance from body fluids and decreased cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell counts.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Difluoromethylornithine-induced reversible hearing loss across a wide frequency range.

Author: SmithMark C, TinlingSteve, DoyleKaren Jo

Hearing loss

This study investigates the effects of alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an antineoplastic agent, on hearing loss in neonatal gerbils. The study aims to measure hearing loss and recovery at different frequencies after DFMO therapy and identify any histological changes in the cochlea.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Long-term treatment of tumor-operated mice with high doses of alpha-difluoromethylornithine.

Author: de LustigE S, KleinS, FuchsA, AlgranatiI D

Metastasis reduction
Delayed wound healing
Megakaryocyte reduction
Weight loss

Alpha-difluoromethylornithine, a polyamine synthesis inhibitor, demonstrated a significant reduction in lung metastases in mice with mammary adenocarcinoma. However, it also caused side effects like weight loss, delayed wound healing, and a decrease in megakaryocytes.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

7.

Difluoromethylornithine plus sulindac for the prevention of sporadic colorectal adenomas: a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

Author: MeyskensFrank L, McLarenChristine E, PelotDaniel, Fujikawa-BrooksSharon, CarpenterPhilip M, HawkErnest, KelloffGary, LawsonMichael J, KidaoJayashri, McCrackenJohn, AlbersC Gregory, AhnenDennis J, TurgeonD Kim, GoldschmidSteven, LancePeter, HagedornCurt H, GillenDaniel L, GernerEugene W

Adenoma recurrence prevention

This study evaluated the efficacy of a combination of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and sulindac in preventing colorectal adenoma recurrence. The combination therapy significantly reduced the recurrence of adenomas, including advanced adenomas, with minimal side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

8.

An Update on African Trypanocide Pharmaceutics and Resistance.

Author: KasoziKeneth Iceland, MacLeodEwan Thomas, NtulumeIbrahim, WelburnSusan Christina

Drug resistance

This abstract provides an overview of African trypanosomiasis, including the pathogens responsible for human and animal infections, current treatment options, and the mechanisms of drug resistance.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

10.

[Arsenical resistance and difluoromethylornithine in the treatment of human African trypanosomiasis].

Author: KazyumbaG L, RuppolJ F, TshefuA K, NkangaN

Sleeping sickness treatment
Anemia
Diarrhea
Hearing loss

Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) was effective in treating 86 patients with human African trypanosomiasis, including 51 who were refractory to melarsoprol. DFMO showed a cure rate of 90%, with minor side effects such as intestinal disorders, anaemia, and decreased hearing.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : French

12.

Evaluation of alpha-difluoromethylornithine as a potential chemopreventive agent: tolerance to daily oral administration in humans.

Author: CreavenP J, PendyalaL, PetrelliN J

Cancer Prevention
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Hearing Loss
Insomnia
Joint Pain
Rash

Alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) is a drug used to prevent cancer. In a clinical trial, 27 subjects received DFMO for 6 months. The highest nontoxic dose was 1600 mg/m2/day. Common side effects were hearing loss, diarrhea, fatigue, joint pain, insomnia, and rash.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

13.

Sustained delivery of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) by means of implantable ceramic devices.

Author: BenghuzziH A, BajpaiP K

Reduced side effects
Sustained delivery

Polylactic acid-impregnated ALCAP capsules filled with DFMO were effective in delivering DFMO in a sustained manner in rats, without the diarrhea observed with oral administration.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

Eflornithine versus cotrimoxazole in the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in AIDS patients.

Author: SmithD E, DaviesS, SmithsonJ, HardingI, GazzardB G

Therapy failure

Cotrimoxazole is more effective than eflornithine for the treatment of first-episode Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Eflornithine had activity against the organism, but more patients discontinued treatment due to therapy failure. Cotrimoxazole was associated with more serious drug-related side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

16.

Successful antidote of multiple lethal infections using sustained delivery of difluoromethylornithine by means of ceramic drug delivery devices.

Author: BenghuzziH A, EnglandB G, BajpaiP K, GiffinB F

Avoids side effects
Cures trypanosomiasis
Sustained release of DFMO

Ceramic drug delivery systems were capable of delivering DFMO in a sustained manner for two months, and were able to cure repeated infections of trypanosomiasis.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

17.

Karyometry in the early detection and chemoprevention of intraepithelial lesions.

Author: Ranger-MooreJ, AlbertsD S, MontironiR, GarciaF, DavisJ, FrankD, BrewerM, MariuzziG M, BartelsH G, BartelsP H

Cancer prevention
Shorter trials
Smaller sample size

This paper discusses the use of karyometric measurements as biomarkers of chemopreventive efficacy. The authors argue that karyometry provides the sensitivity needed to detect small differences in progression of intraepithelial neoplasia (IEN) to invasive cancer. This could lead to more efficient and effective clinical trials of chemopreventive agents.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

19.

Inhibition of N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine-induced urinary bladder tumor in rats by alpha-difluoromethylornithine.

Author: KawaharaM, MatsuhashiT, YagishitaT, TajimaM, MatsushimaM

Bladder tumor treatment
Tumor reduction
Alopecia

DFMO significantly reduced the incidence, mean number, and total size of bladder tumors in rats induced by BBN. The only observed side effect was alopecia.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

20.

Removal of unwanted facial hair.

Author: ShenenbergerDonald W, UtechtLynn M

Facial Hair Removal

There are many treatments for unwanted facial hair. Electrolysis is the only permanent treatment. Laser hair removal is the most effective, but it is not always permanent.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

21.

Drug discovery and human African trypanosomiasis: a disease less neglected?

Author: FerrinsLori, RahmaniRaphaël, BaellJonathan B

Improved HAT
Side effects

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) is a neglected tropical disease with limited treatment options. This review discusses the need for new drugs and diagnostic tools for HAT, highlighting ongoing efforts to develop new treatments and the potential for significant breakthroughs in the future.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

22.

[Treatment of human trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense using alpha-difluoromethylornithine. Results in 7 patients].

Author: TaelmanH, MarcelisL, SonnetJ, KazyumbaG, Van den EndenE, WeryM, SchechterP J

Sleeping sickness treatment
Anemia
Diarrhea
Hearing loss

DFMO, a specific inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, was effective in treating 7 patients with Trypanosoma brucei gambiense infection, showing a cure rate of 86% with minor side effects.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : French

23.

Inhibitory action of alpha-difluoromethylornithine on N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine-induced rat urinary bladder carcinogenesis.

Author: UchidaK, SeidenfeldJ, RademakerA, OyasuR

Cancer prevention

DFMO, an ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor, suppressed rat urinary bladder carcinogenesis. The suppressive effect was stage-specific and lasted with continuous treatment. DFMO showed potential as a chemopreventive agent for human superficial bladder cancer.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

24.

Hirsutism: diagnosis and management.

Author: MercurioM G

Hirsutism treatment

The majority of women with hirsutism have a type without an underlying hormonal imbalance. However, it is important to consider the possibility of a hormonal issue in some cases. Hirsutism can significantly impact quality of life. The development of a topical medication (eflornithine hydrochloride) without systemic side effects represents a positive step towards safer and more effective management options.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

25.

A phase II study of alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) for the treatment of metastatic melanoma.

Author: MeyskensF L, KingsleyE M, GlattkeT, LoescherL, BoothA

Melanoma Treatment
Hearing Loss
Thrombocytopenia

DFMO, an inhibitor of polyamine synthesis, was tested in a phase II trial on 24 patients with melanoma. One patient had a complete response for 11 months, and 7 patients showed stabilization of disease for a median duration of 8 weeks. Significant side effects, including hearing loss and thrombocytopenia, were observed in 10 patients.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

26.

Difluoromethylornithine for arseno-resistant Trypanosoma brucei gambiense sleeping sickness.

Author: PepinJ, MilordF, GuernC, SchechterP J

Improved central nervous system status
Rapid disappearance of trypanosomes
Anaemia
Death
Diarrhoea
Hair loss

Eflornithine, an inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, was found to be effective in treating arseno-resistant Trypanosoma brucei gambiense trypanosomiasis, with a success rate of 81%.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

27.

Development of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) as a chemoprevention agent.

Author: MeyskensF L, GernerE W

Inhibits carcinogen-induced cancer development
Suppresses polyamine contents
Ototoxicity

DFMO is an inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, an enzyme involved in polyamine synthesis. DFMO is being investigated as a potential chemopreventive agent for various cancers.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.