Leuprorelin

Leuprorelin, also known as leuprolide, is a medication used in the treatment of prostate cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and early puberty. It is given by injection into a muscle or under the skin.

Leuprorelin

Medical Uses

Leuprorelin is used to treat hormone-responsive cancers such as prostate cancer and breast cancer, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. It is also used in assisted reproduction and to treat precocious puberty.

Prostate Cancer

In men, leuprorelin is used to treat prostate cancer. It works by reducing the production of testosterone, which helps to slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Breast Cancer

In women, leuprorelin is used to treat certain types of breast cancer. It works by reducing the production of estrogen, which helps to slow the growth of breast cancer cells.

Endometriosis and Uterine Fibroids

Leuprorelin is also used to treat endometriosis and uterine fibroids. It works by reducing the production of estrogen, which helps to shrink endometriosis and fibroid tissues.

Early Puberty

Leuprorelin is used to treat early puberty (precocious puberty). It works by delaying the release of sex hormones.

Side Effects

Common side effects of leuprorelin include hot flashes, mood changes, weight change, and pain or swelling at the injection site. Serious side effects may include bone loss, increased risk of heart disease, and diabetes.

Pharmacology

Leuprorelin is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue. It works by overstimulating the body's own production of certain hormones, which causes that system to shut down temporarily.

History

Leuprorelin was approved for medical use in the United States in 1985. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.

See Also

• List of hormonal cytostatic antineoplastic agents
• List of drugs used in the treatment of endometriosis

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