LHRH Agonists Side Effects

LHRH (luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone) agonists work to manage the symptoms of prostate cancer by blocking the production of male hormones. Therefore, they can cause certain side effects related to a decrease in male hormone levels. ELIGARD® (leuprolide acetate for injectable suspension) is a type of LHRH agonist, but the side effects covered in this section are general side effects associated with the entire group of LHRH agonists. For information on side effects specific to ELIGARD, see the section titled "Side Effects of ELIGARD."

Talk to Your Doctor

If you're having side effects from your LHRH agonist prostate cancer treatment, talk to your doctor or nurse to determine the causes and possible ways to manage them.

Common Side Effects of LHRH Agonist Therapy

Breast growth (gynecomastia) and/or sensitivity (mastodynia)
Weight gain
Loss of muscle mass and strength
Loss of testicular and penile volume
Loss of body hair
Change in head hair, beard
Loss of bone mineral density
Low red blood count (anemia)
Lipid changes
Sexual dysfunction
Inability to achieve or maintain an erection
Hot flashes
Lack of energy or initiative
Mood swings

What side effects am I likely to experience?
Can you recommend ways to manage side effects?
Are the side effects permanent or temporary?
Are there certain foods that might help?
What form of exercise is right for me?

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Remember, Eligard is available by Rx only and your doctor is the single best source of information regarding you and your health.
Please consult your doctor if you have any questions about your health or your medication.

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Indications and Important Safety Information

Indication
ELIGARD is a prescription drug, given by injection, for the management of advanced prostate cancer. However, there is no known cure for prostate cancer.

Important Information
ELIGARD should not be used by women, children, or anyone who is allergic to the drug leuprolide acetate or any of the ingredients of ELIGARD.

ELIGARD, like other drugs in its class, causes a temporary increase in testosterone during the first weeks of treatment. Patients may experience worsening of symptoms or new symptoms during the first weeks of treatment, including bone pain, nerve damage, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating. The most common side effects are hot flashes, injection site pain (including burning and stinging), fatigue, and testicular atrophy.

Please see patient information for important additional information.