Diethylstilbestrol
Diethylstilbestrol is a synthetic non-steroidal estrogen that was first synthesized in the 1940s. It was historically prescribed for menopausal symptoms, certain pregnancy complications, and hormone-sensitive cancers, though its use is now extremely limited due to serious adverse effects discovered through long-term follow-up studies.
A synthetic estrogen largely discontinued due to serious toxicity concerns, though it had historical use in menopausal therapy and cancer treatment.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- G03CA01
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Diethylstilbestrol
- Class
- atc-g03
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- X
- Lactation
- unsafe
- Half-life (h)
- 17
- Onset (min)
- 60
- Duration (h)
- 48
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, oral capsule
- Regions
- worldwide
- Monitoring
- blood pressure, breast cancer screening, cardiovascular risk
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Originally prescribed for menopausal hormone therapy, atrophic vaginitis, and prevention of pregnancy complications (later found harmful). Also used for advanced prostate cancer and postmenopausal breast cancer. Current clinical use is minimal, primarily in select cancer cases when other options are unavailable.
Functions as a non-steroidal estrogen receptor agonist, binding to and activating estrogen receptors throughout the body to produce estrogenic effects in reproductive tissues, bone, liver, and other estrogen-responsive organs.
Transplacental exposure during pregnancy is associated with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina/cervix in offspring, along with reproductive tract abnormalities. Withdrawn from use in pregnancy since 1971. Also linked to increased breast cancer risk. Largely replaced by safer alternatives; requires specialized prescribing and monitoring when used.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy