Honvan Tablet

Introduction

Honvan is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Fosfestrol. This medication is available in tablet form and is commonly used to treat certain types of cancer, including prostate and breast cancer.

Uses

Honvan is primarily prescribed for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer in male patients. It may also be used in the treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. This medication works by suppressing the production of certain hormones that contribute to the growth of cancer cells.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Honvan may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual patient’s response to the medication. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Generally, the recommended dose for prostate cancer is 120 mg to 240 mg per day, divided into two or three smaller doses. For breast cancer, the recommended dose is 240 mg per day, divided into two smaller doses.

Honvan should be taken orally with a full glass of water. It is recommended to take this medication on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Swallow the tablet whole, without crushing or chewing it.

Mechanism of Action

Fosfestrol, the active ingredient in Honvan, belongs to a group of medications known as synthetic estrogens. It works by blocking the effects of certain hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, that can promote the growth of cancer cells. By inhibiting the production of these hormones, Honvan helps to slow down the progression of the cancer.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and hot flashes. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

In some cases, more serious side effects may occur. These can include blood clots, bone pain, swelling of the legs or feet, and signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these serious side effects or any other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Drug Interactions

Honvan may interact with certain other medications, including blood thinners, anticonvulsants, and certain antibiotics. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, to avoid potential drug interactions. Your healthcare provider will be able to determine if any adjustments to your medication regimen are necessary.

Precautions

Before taking Honvan, inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions you may have, especially if you have a history of blood clots, liver disease, or hormone-related disorders. This medication may not be suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with known hypersensitivity to Fosfestrol or any other ingredients in the medication.

Honvan may have an impact on certain laboratory test results, so inform your healthcare provider if you are undergoing any diagnostic tests.

Storage

Honvan should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the medication in its original packaging and out of reach of children.

Patient Tips

• take Honvan exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider first.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• It is advisable to maintain good hydration while taking Honvan. Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid activities that may increase the risk of injury or bleeding, as Honvan may have an impact on blood clotting.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Honvan or its use, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Droz JP, Kattan J, Bonnay M, Chraibi Y, Bekradda M, Culine S. High-dose continuous-infusion fosfestrol in hormone-resistant prostate cancer. Cancer. 1993 Feb 1;71(3 Suppl):1123-30. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(19930201)71:3+<1123::aid-cncr2820711434>3.0.co;2-t. [Accessed 8 Jun. 2024] Available at:
• Williams AR, Whelan P. Use of intravenous fosfestrol tetrasodium (Honvan) infusion in treatment of symptomatic advanced prostate cancer. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis. 1998 Jun;1(4):204-207. doi: 10.1038/sj.pcan.4500235. [Accessed 26 Jun. 2024] Available at:
• Nandini Devi R, Praveen Kumar Shenoy VP, Ismail I, Avaronnan M. Outcomes and toxicity of oral Fosfestrol in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer-a real-world experience. Ecancermedicalscience. 2023 Aug 14;17:1589. doi: 10.3332/ecancer.2023.1589. eCollection 2023. [Accessed 10 Jun. 2024] Available at:
• G Themelis D, Trellopoulos AV, Tzanavaras PD, Karlberg B. Assay of the synthetic estrogen fosfestrol in pharmaceutical formulations using capillary electrophoresis. J Pharm Biomed Anal. 2005 Sep 15;39(3-4):559-63. doi: 10.1016/j.jpba.2005.05.007. [Accessed 25 Jun. 2024] Available at: