What Is Leuprolide Used For?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Leuprolide is used in women to treat symptoms of endometriosis (overgrowth of uterine lining outside of the uterus) or uterine fibroids. Leuprolide is also used to treat precocious (early-onset) puberty in both male and female children at least 2 years old.

Why Leuprolide injection is given?

Leuprolide injection (Lupron Depot) is used alone or with another (norethindrone) to treat endometriosis (a condition in which the type of tissue that lines the uterus [womb] grows in other areas of the body and causes pain, heavy or irregular menstruation [periods], and other symptoms).

What is leuprolide used for in IVF?

Leuprolide is a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist. It reduces the amount of hormone that stimulates ovulation . This helps to control your ovulatory cycle and prevent premature ovulation, so that your doctor can have predictable access to your eggs for IVF.

What does leuprolide do to the body?

Leuprolide works by reducing the amount of testosterone that the body makes . This helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells and helps relieve symptoms such as painful/difficult urination.

What is the difference between Lupron and leuprolide?

Lupron, Eligard , Lupron Depot, and Viadur are trade names for Leuprolide. In some cases, health care professionals may use the trade names Lupron, Eligard, Lupron Depot, and Viadur when referring to the generic drug name Leuprolide. Drug type: Lupron is a hormone therapy.

Does leuprolide stop your period?

When this medication is used regularly, it is expected that the menstrual period will stop (or decrease to light bleeding/spotting). Menstrual periods usually return within 2 months after treatment is stopped. Tell your doctor promptly if regular periods continue during treatment with leuprolide.

Does leuprolide cause weight gain?

Weight gain or weight loss

Weight changes may occur with Lupron Depot use. One of the most common side effects of women taking Lupron Depot is weight gain. However, some women may experience weight loss instead.

Does Lupron increase fertility?

Usually, you take it for a few days before starting injectable fertility . While efficacy studies are limited, a small amount of older research suggests taking Lupron may significantly improve fertilization rates when used during fertility treatments like IVF.

How do you feel after Lupron injection?

In clinical trials, the most common side effects of LUPRON DEPOT, occurring in >10% of patients, include hot flashes/sweats , headache/migraine, decreased libido, depression/emotional lability, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, pain, vaginitis, and weight gain.

What are the long term side effects of Lupron?

Long-term side effects included migraines, hot flashes/sweating, joint pain, and decreased libido (Table 3).

Does Lupron affect the heart?

LUPRON DEPOT can affect the electrical activity of your heart . Your doctor must determine if the benefits of using LUPRON DEPOT outweigh the risks, especially if you have congenital long QT syndrome, abnormal blood tests for electrolytes, congestive heart failure, or if you take medications to regulate your heartbeat.

How long is leuprolide good for?

Storing Leuprolide Two Week Kit Dosage

Store in the original carton at room temperature between 59 degrees and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees and 25 degrees Celsius). Refrigerate after first use at a temperature of 36 degrees to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees to 8 degrees Celsius) for up to 30 days , after opening.

Where is Lupron injected?

Lupron® is injected subcutaneously —or into the fatty tissue under your skin. The primary sites for injection are your abdomen—2 inches on either side of the navel—and your upper, outer-thigh where the skin is loose.

What hormones does Lupron affect?

Lupron acts by suppressing the pituitary hormones (FSH or Follicle Stimulating Hormone and LH or Luteinizing Hormone) which are responsible for stimulating the ovaries to produce estrogen and other hormones.

Does Lupron make you emotional?

Common side effects of Lupron include: Hot flashes (70 to 80%) Headaches (25 to 32%) Mood swings and depression (10 to 22%)

Is Lupron a shot or pill?

Lupron Depot is injected under the skin or into a muscle , once every month or once every 3 to 6 months. A healthcare provider can teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.