Eligard

Generic Name: Leuprorelin acetate
Product Name: Eligard

Indication

Eligard is used in the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

Action

Leuprorelin acetate is a hormonal antineoplastic agent known as a GnRH or LHRH agonist. It inhibits the release of gonadotrophin, the molecule that is important in the control of further hormone release by the ovaries and testes. When used chronically, Eligard may result in a testosterone level equivalent to that seen in surgically castrated men. This may be desirable in the treatment of testosterone-dependent prostate cancer.

Dose advice

– 7.5mg preparation should be reconstituted and injected subcutaneously once a month.- 22.5mg preparation should be reconstituted and injected subcutaneously once every 3 months.- 30mg preparation should be reconstituted and injected subcutaneously once every 4 months.- Fractions of the 22.5mg and 30mg preparations are not equivalent to monthly dosing and should not be used in any other way.- Preparations contain no antimicrobial agent and should be used as soon as prepared.

Schedule

S4

Common side effects

Due to an initial stimulation of LHRH release, Eligard often causes worsening of signs and symptoms for the first 1-2 weeks of treatment. Symptoms may include:- Worsened bone pain.- Increased urinary outflow obstruction.- Spinal cord compression (weakness/change in sensation in lower limbs).Other common side effects of Eligard include:- Stinging/burning at injection site (mild).- Fatigue.- Dizziness.- Hot flushes.- Decrease in size of testes.- Urinary frequency.- Nausea.- Breast enlargement.- Night sweats.- Hair loss.- Itching.- Decreased libido.- Joint and muscle aches.

Uncommon side effects

Uncommon effects include:- Sweating.- Insomnia.- Fainting.- Constipation.- Flatulence.- Weight gain.- Tremor.- Back ache.- Vertigo.- Changes in blood pressure.

For further information talk to your doctor.