Lupron, also known as leuprolide, is a prescription drug used by prostate cancer patients. Lupron is not a chemotherapeutic drug and does not cure prostate cancer. Rather, Lupron alleviates many of the symptoms of prostate cancer. Lupron works by decreasing the production of testosterone. Like other drugs that alter hormone levels, Lupron is associated with a number of side effects. A physician should explain these potential side effects before the start of Lupron therapy.
Testicular Shrinking
Drug safety information provided by Abbott Laboratories, the makers of Lupron, explains that Lupron interferes with the ability of the testicles to produce testosterone. Low testosterone levels can cause a number of hormonal related side effects, including shrinkage of the testicles. Low testosterone levels may also cause decreased libido as well as an enlargement or tenderness of the breasts.
Bone Pain
While Lupron ultimately leads to a decrease in testosterone production, testosterone levels may actually rise in the first two weeks of Lupron treatment. This increase in testosterone is often associated with bone pain that typically goes away after testosterone levels become to come back down. Increase in testosterone may also lead to pain to during urination. In addition to bone pain, Lupron can also cause long-term changes in bone density.
Depression
Certain psychological reactions are common with Lupron use. According to Drugs.com, depression and mood changes are reported by about 45 percent of Lupron users. Other depression-associated psychological effects of Lupron include insomnia, anxiety and nervousness.
Headaches and Dizziness
Mild neurological side effects are common with Lupron therapies. Drugs.com reports that about 7 to 39 percent of Lupron users will experience headaches as a side effect of Lupron use.
Changes in Cardiac Rhythm
Lupron use is also associated with changes in cardiac rhythms. Drug safety information provided by Drugs.com reports that 19 percent of patients on Lupron will have changes in electrocardiogram, or ECG, patterns. These changes in heart rhythm may be accompanies by changes in blood pressure, chest pain and even heart attack.
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