Leuprolide Acetate by Ray Sahelian, M.D.
Brand Names: Eligard, Lupron, Viadur
Leuprolide is
related to a naturally occurring hormone called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
GnRH influences the release of the hormones testosterone and estrogen in the
body. Leuprolide is used to reduce the amount of testosterone or estrogen in the
body. Leuprolide acetate has been widely used over the past 20 years as a treatment for a
range of hormone-related disorders, including prostate cancer, endometriosis,
and precocious puberty. Leuprolide acetate may also be
used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How is Leuprolide Acetate given?
Leuprolide can be administered as an intramuscular injection (into muscle), a
subcutaneous injection (under the skin), as a depot injection (a shot given
periodically at a doctor's office), or as an implant.
Leuprolide and Pregnancy
Leuprolide acetate is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that leuprolide
acetate is
known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use this medication if
you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known
whether leuprolide passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without
first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Leuprolide Side Effects
Side effects of
leuprolide may include the following: an allergic reaction (difficulty
breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or
hives); difficulty urinating; bone pain; or numbness, tingling, or weakness in
the legs or arms; decreased libido or impotence; hot flashes; lack of
energy; depression; breast enlargement; and nausea or vomiting.
Leuprolide and Alzheimer's
Disease
Women with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease in whom the anti-gonadotropin agent leuprolide acetate is added to conventional acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI) therapy maintain cognitive and physical functioning longer than women treated with conventional therapy alone. The trial was sponsored by Voyager Pharmaceutical Corporation.