Description

Eligard (Leuprolide Acetate) works as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, commonly used in the management of advanced prostate cancer. It may help decrease the production of testosterone, which is often a contributing factor in the growth of prostate cancer cells. Manufactured as an injectable suspension, Eligard is available in multiple dosages designed for a variety of treatment schedules, such as one-month, three-month, four-month, and six-month formulations.

Directions

Eligard is carefully administered through subcutaneous injection to manage advanced prostate cancer. A healthcare provider must administer the medication as it requires precise technique. The dosage varies, offering flexibility with options for a one-, three-, four-, or six-month treatment period, based on individual patient needs and medical advice. After preparation, the provider will inject the medication under the patient's skin. This method ensures a continuous release of leuprolide acetate into the body over the designated time frame.

Ingredients

An Eligard injection contains the active ingredient Leuprolide Acetate.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using Eligard if any of the following apply:

• Known hypersensitivity to GnRH, GnRH agonists, or any components of Eligard.
• Patients with a history of anaphylactic reactions to synthetic GnRH or GnRH agonists.

Cautions

• Before initiating treatment with Eligard, make sure to share the following information with your healthcare provider:
• Any health conditions you have
• Known allergies
• The medications you are currently taking
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Eligard, like other drugs in its class, initially raises testosterone levels, which can temporarily worsen symptoms like bone pain, urinary issues, or blood in the urine. This effect usually settles within the first few weeks of treatment.
• In cases of advanced prostate cancer, especially if cancer has spread to the spine or if there is a blockage in the urinary tract, there's a risk of severe complications such as spinal cord compression or kidney problems that could lead to paralysis or other serious outcomes.
• It’s important to regularly check testosterone and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels to gauge how well the treatment is working. These levels should start to decrease within two to four weeks into treatment, indicating that the drug is effective.
• There's an increased risk of high blood sugar and possibly developing diabetes while on Eligard. If you have diabetes or are at risk, your blood sugar levels should be monitored more closely.
• Using Eligard might increase the risk of heart attacks, sudden cardiac death, and stroke. Although this risk is considered low, it’s crucial to monitor for heart-related symptoms, and manage them according to current clinical guidelines.
• Androgen deprivation therapy like Eligard can affect heart rhythm, especially in patients with heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, or those taking other medications that can impact heart rhythm. Regular monitoring with electrocardiograms might be needed.
• There have been reports of seizures in patients using Eligard, even those without a prior history of seizures. It’s important to be aware of this potential, especially if using other medications that could also increase the risk of seizures.
• Eligard can harm an unborn baby if administered to a pregnant woman. Women who are pregnant or might become pregnant should be aware of the potential risks.

Side Effects

Eligard side effects include hot flashes and sweating due to its effect on hormone levels. Patients may also experience discomfort at the injection site, including transient burning or stinging, mild pain, and slight redness or bruising. Other frequent symptoms include malaise, fatigue, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and occasional upset stomach.

Eligard can lead to significant health concerns, including cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. It can also affect bone density, potentially leading to osteoporosis if used for a prolonged period. Neurologically, it might cause seizures, and in rare cases, it has been linked to pituitary apoplexy—a serious condition that can occur shortly after the first dose, characterized by sudden headache, vision changes, and possibly collapse.

Patients experiencing any severe reactions should seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, Eligard can cause changes in mood and libido, testicular pain, and urinary changes, which can significantly impact quality of life. Patients should regularly discuss any new or worsening symptoms with their healthcare provider to manage side effects effectively.

References:

1. Eligard (Leuprolide acetate) Product Monograph. Fort Collins, CO: Tolmar; 2024.
2. Eligard (Leuprolide acetate) Drug Label Information. Fort Collins, CO: Tolmar; 2024.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....

Product Code : 12420