Leuprolide acetate is for the palliative treatment of the following conditions:
US Brand Name(s): Eligard, Lupron Depot
Leuprolide acetate
Leuprolide acetate is a medication that is primarily used in the treatment of certain hormone-related conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists.
Leuprolide acetate is commonly prescribed to manage conditions such as:
- Prostate cancer: It is used to treat advanced prostate cancer by suppressing the production of testosterone, which helps to slow down the growth of cancer cells.
- Endometriosis: It is used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it, leading to pain and infertility. Leuprolide acetate helps to reduce estrogen levels and inhibit the growth of endometrial tissue.
- Uterine fibroids: It may be used to shrink uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain and heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Precocious puberty: Leuprolide acetate can be employed to delay the onset of puberty in children with certain forms of early puberty.
The medication is typically administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously) or into a muscle (intramuscularly). The dosing and duration of treatment depend on the specific condition being treated and the individual’s response to the medication.
As with any medication, leuprolide acetate can have potential side effects, which may include hot flashes, fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and bone loss. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with a healthcare professional before starting treatment.
Use in Cancer Treatment
Cancer of the prostate that has progressed.
Other kinds of cancer are also under research with leuprolide acetate.
Detailed scientific definition- Definition from the NCI Drug Dictionary –
Leuprolide Acetate Information from MedlinePlus – A summary of key facts regarding this medication in layman’s terms, which may contain the following:
- Cautions about this medicine
- What is the use and how?
- Whom should you consult before taking it?
- What you should know about it before using it?
- Other drugs that might interact with it
- Possible negative effects
Drugs are frequently under research to see whether they can assist treat or prevent conditions other than those already prevalent. This patient information leaflet covers uses which have been under authorization. Much of the material, though, might also apply to authorized uses that are being investigated.
