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.
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For U.S. Residents Only
IMPORTANT SAFETY IMFORMATION

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. Leuprolide acetate can cause harm to the fetus if given to a pregnant woman.

ELIGARD, like other drugs in its class, causes a temporary increase in testosterone during the first and second 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, pressure on the spine, or difficulty urinating. If your cancer has spread to the spine or urinary tract, urinary blockage or pressure in the spine may occur and can sometimes lead to paralysis, which may be fatal. You may require close medical attention during the first few weeks of therapy and you should notify your doctor if you develop any new or worsened symptoms after beginning treatment with ELIGARD.

The most common injection site side effects are temporary burning and stinging, pain, bruising and redness. The most common systemic adverse events include mild to severe hot flashes/sweats, fatigue, weakness, fever, muscle pain, testicular shrinkage and breast enlargement. For more information on these and other side effects, please talk to your doctor.

Checklist for Caregivers of Prostate Cancer Patients

You are a very important member of your loved one's prostate cancer care team. Whether you are a friend or family member, the support and help you provide matters. Here are some things you can do to help. Print this page for a handy reference and be sure to share it with others who are also involved in his care.

  • Help him keep track of his doctor's appointments and offer to go with him. Even if you won't be there for the exam, you can drive there and back, stay with him in the waiting room, or even take notes and ask questions of the doctor if that's something he may want.

  • Use the PSA Level Tracker to help him keep track of his prostate status. When he has his PSA level (prostate-specific antigen) tested, ask his doctor for the number and record it in the tracker.

  • Make sure he gets plenty of rest and offer to help when you can with errands or chores to help him conserve energy levels and combat fatigue.

  • Help him with grocery shopping or cooking to help him maintain a balanced diet. Maintaining a healthy diet will not only help him boost his overall strength and energy level, but it may increase his body's ability to tolerate side effects of hormonal therapy.

  • Join your loved one in exercising. Exercise can help control weight, build muscular strength and tone, and increase flexibility. It may also help fight prostate cancer-related fatigue, sleep changes, stress, and depression. Before either of you pursues any strenuous physical exercise, be sure to consult a health-care provider.

  • Be compassionate. Prostate cancer can have a physical and emotional toll. Your loved one may feel very stressed or depressed by his condition, and side effects of treatment may be difficult for him. Be sure to emphasize, though, the importance of following a health-care professional's instructions.

  • Discuss your fears. Prostate cancer can trigger many powerful emotions, including anger and fear. Some men may be reluctant to discuss their fears. By sharing yours, you may encourage him to share his concerns as well.

  • Be on the lookout for signs of depression or anxiety. It's common for patients with chronic illnesses to feel a range of emotions, including anger and sadness. If your loved one appears to be having trouble coping, encourage him to seek help, or find a prostate cancer support group, or talk with someone he trusts.

  • Take care of yourself. Caregivers need support, too. The demands of providing physical help and emotional support for your loved one, along with coping with the daily stresses of life, can wear on you. Don't try to do everything yourself. Ask other family members or friends to help out and make time for yourself. If you need support for yourself, talk to a friend, family member, professional counselor, or members of a prostate cancer support group.
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