Sep 29, 2005
Diethyl Stilbestrol (DES)
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Dan Lednicer offered us a guest editorial some time ago that mentioned the ill-fated drug diethyl stilbestrol (DES) and the toxicity of this and other compounds. Here’s the 3D chemical structure of DES for recent visitors to Sciencebase who were looking for it!
Diethylstilbestrol is an orally active non-steroidal estrogen first made in 1938 and originally approved for use in gonorrheal vaginitis, atrophic vaginitis, for menopausal symptoms, and in postpartum lactation suppression to prevent breast engorgement.
However, in 1971 it was found to be a teratogen – causing birth defects – when given to pregnant women and later a carcinogen. It is currently used only in veterinary practice at very low (hypocarcinogenic) doses for treating female canine incontinence.
David Bradley
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Sciencebase 
May 1st, 2009 at 11:17 pm
so… my vet would like me to give this to my dog.
I am a lactating female who is planning another pregnancy. Are there any special precautions I should take when handling pills?
(You can thank the propecia ads for wierding me out about this!)
October 16th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Marianne, if that’s the case talk to your veterinarian urgently.
October 16th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
My dog has just started taking stilbestrol and has had a allergic reaction to it.
Where can I get more info on allergic reactions in canines?
April 1st, 2008 at 10:38 am
Good question Ashley, I’d assumed anyone looking for the structure would know. But, have added a few sentences to explain DES.
db
April 1st, 2008 at 4:47 am
what is it?