Description
What is Lupron Depot?
Lupron Depot (generic: leuprolide acetate) is a depot suspension indicated for palliative treatment of advanced prostatic cancer. It relieves symptoms, such as pain or difficult urination. It is also used to manage endometriosis, including pain relief and reduction of endometriosis lesions. In addition, this is also given to stop precocious puberty or early puberty among children.
This is available in Lupron Depot 3.75 mg, 7.5 mg, 11.25 mg, 22.5 mg & 30 mg injections in a kit.
Lupron Depot Mechanism of Action
This GnRH agonist works as an inhibitor of gonadotropin secretion. Continued use of Lupron Depot results in testicular and ovarian steroidogenesis. It also inhibits the growth of specific hormone-dependent tumors and atrophy of reproductive organs. However, its effects are reversible once the drug is discontinued.
How to Use Lupron Depot Kit
Before starting to use Lupron Depot Kit, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not use any medication unless you have understood all the information regarding it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
Lupron Depot is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly. This should only be given by a doctor or healthcare professional. Note that your symptoms may increase in the first few weeks of treatment.
Make sure you don’t miss a dose by creating a schedule. This could be given monthly, every three months, or every four months, depending on the advice of your physician. Talk to your healthcare provider regarding what to expect and what to avoid during the period while on Lupron Depot.
Lupron Depot Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Nausea
-Dizziness
-Headache
-Night sweats
-Hot flashes
-Tiredness
-Stomach upset
Severe Side Effects:
-Shrinking of testicles
-Breast swelling among men
-Bone pain
-Mental or mood changes
-Shortness of breath
-Chest pain
-Palpitations
-Severe dizziness
-Fainting
-Stroke (weakness on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes)
-Pituitary apoplexy (severe headache, severe vomiting, fainting, difficulty concentrating)
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Lupron Depot.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and consult your doctor or any healthcare professional.
Precautions / Warnings
Do not administer Lupron Depot if you have a known allergy to leuprolide or any inactive components this suspension may contain. Always watch out for certain signs of a severe allergic reaction like severe dizziness, swelling of the face, red patches on the skin (rashes), itchiness/hives, and breathing problems. Take immediate medical action if this occurs.
Some diseases or disorders may directly affect how your body will respond to the treatment. Disclose entire medical history to the doctor, including any history of diabetes, high cholesterol, stroke, heart disease, seizure, and mental or mood problems. Due to drug interactions, it is also necessary to talk about all prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, herbal products, and supplements you are using.
Using this medication may weaken your bones or increase the risk of osteoporosis (bone loss), especially if used for a long time. Prior to using this injection, tell your physician if you have osteoporosis, have a history of broken bones, or actively smoke. You should also avoid some medications that could worsen bone loss, such as prednisone or phenytoin.
You may experience QT prolongation while on Lupron. This heart rhythm irregularity could be considered a medical emergency if characterized by fainting, severe dizziness, and fast/irregular heartbeat. You can avoid this condition by staying hydrated and avoiding diuretics. Your physician may also have your blood potassium and magnesium levels checked from time to time.
Dizziness is among the common adverse effects of this prescription drug. To avoid worsening adverse effects, avoid alcohol consumption. You must also observe caution when driving, using machinery, and doing tasks that require alertness.
Pregnant moms must avoid this injection because of the harmful effects that it may inflict on unborn babies. You may also need to practice birth control methods while on this medication. For breastfeeding moms, it is unknown whether this drug can pass into the breastmilk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I administer Lupron on my own?
This medication may be administered by either a physician or a patient.
2. What are the indications of Lupron Depot?
Physicians prescribe Lupron Depot – prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty.
3. How long should I take Lupron Depot for endometriosis?
This suspension kit is given to patients with endometriosis every three months. However, the length of therapy will depend on one’s response.
4. Do I need to store the Lupron Depot Kit in the refrigerator?
There is no need to refrigerate this kit. You may store it at room temperature.
5. How much does Lupron Depot Kit cost?
You may check for the prices of Lupron from this page.