Diethylstilbestrol

diethylstilbestrol /di·eth·yl·stil·bes·trol/ (DES) (-stil-bes´trol) a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen, used as the base or the diphosphate salt for the palliative treatment of prostatic carcinoma and sometimes breast carcinoma; it is an epigenetic carcinogen and females exposed to it in utero are subject to increased risk of vaginal and cervical carcinomas.

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di·eth·yl·stil·bes·trol (d-thl-stl-bstrôl, -trl)

n.

DES.

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Diethylstilbestrol (DES)

This is a synthetic estrogen drug that is used to treat a number of hormonal conditions. However, it causes problems in developing fetuses and should not be taken during pregnancy. From about 1938 to 1971, DES was given to pregnant women because it was thought to prevent miscarriage. Children of women who took the drug during pregnancy are at risk for certain health problems.

Mentioned in: Incompetent Cervix, Miscarriage

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diethylstilbestrol (dīeth´ilstilbes´trôl),

n an estrogenic substance, C₁₈H₂₀O₂, that has an estrogenic activity considered to be greater than that of estrone. Useful in treating menopausal symptoms and occasionally used in the therapy of chronic desquamative gingivitis associated with artificial or natural menopause.

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diethylstilbestrol

a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen; abbreviated DES. In cattle used to treat infertility and as a stimulant to weight gain by increasing muscular development. Its use is limited as a weight gain stimulant because of the possible entry of the compound into the human food chain. Excessive, long-term administration causes anal prolapse, abortion, fracture of the pelvis and nymphomaniac behavior. Sometimes used in dogs to treat misalliance and urinary incontinence, but limited by its myelotoxic effects.