Treating Prostate Cancer

Radiation Therapy

Also known as "irradiation" or "radiotherapy," radiation therapy involves using high-energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.
In the early stages of prostate cancer, radiation therapy may be used instead of surgery, or it may be used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells.
In the case of advanced prostate cancer, radiation therapy may be given to relieve pain or other problems.
"External beam radiation" therapy may be directed at the body in short daily sessions given over many weeks.
For localized prostate cancer, tiny radioactive "seeds," called "implant radiation" or "brachytherapy," may be placed inside the tumor.

Potential Side Effects of Radiation Therapy for Treating Prostate Cancer

The high-energy x-rays aimed at the cancer can also affect healthy cells.
May cause some side effects, including diarrhea, sometimes with blood in the stool, and cramping.
Other side effects may include inflammation of the bladder, blood in the urine, and frequent or urgent urination.
In some cases, bowel function does not return to normal after treatment.
Can also cause fatigue (extreme tiredness), which usually does not last more than a month or two after treatment.
Many side effects can be managed with medicines or special diets, so be sure to discuss these with your doctor or nurse.

What are the treatment choices for my stage of prostate cancer?
What are the expected benefits of each therapy?
What are the risks and side effects of each therapy?
How will I know if my prostate cancer treatment is working?
What are my other choices?
How can side effects be managed?
Are there new prostate cancer treatments under study?
Would a clinical trial be appropriate for me?
How is prostate cancer treatment likely to affect my sex life?
Am I likely to have urinary problems?
Am I likely to have bowel problems?
Will I need to change my normal activities? If so, for how long?
What if the prostate cancer comes back after my initial treatment?
Where can I find more information on prostate cancer?
How will my future look after treatment?

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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.