Lupron Depot, the brand name for the generic drug leuprolide acetate, is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of medical conditions, including endometriosis and prostate cancer. This medication is administered by a medical professional as an injection within the muscle once every three months or as recommended by a doctor. Patients should discuss the side effects of a Lupron Depot injection before initiating treatment.
Injection Site Reaction
Patients receiving treatment with Lupron Depot can develop an injection site reaction as a side effect of this medication, according to MedlinePlus, an online medical encyclopedia supported by the National Institutes of Health. The skin surrounding the injection site may appear unusually red or swollen. Following treatment, patients may experience a burning, tingling or stinging sensation at the injection site that can begin to itch. This side effect of a Lupron Depot injection are temporary and will progressively subside within a few hours or days of treatment.
Stomach Upset
Stomach upset, such as nausea or vomiting, may occur while patients take this medication, according to PDRHealth, a medical information resource associated with the "Physicians' Desktop Reference." Diarrhea or constipation can also occur in certain patients following treatment with Lupron Depot. Stomach discomfort can contribute to loss of appetite or weight loss in affected patients.
Headaches or Hot Flashes
Treatment with Lupron Depot injection can cause side effects of headaches or hot flashes in certain patients. In clinical trials for this medication, over 45 percent of patients receiving Lupron Depot injection reported experiencing hot flashes or increased sweating, according to Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website. Sweating and hot flashes can be uncomfortable and may disrupt a patient's ability to sleep through the night.
Libido and Sexual Changes
Lupron Depot can cause patients to experience libido or sexual changes as side effects of injection treatment. Men and women who take this medication may develop decreased sexual desire or interest. Male patients may have difficulty become aroused, and women may experience vaginal dryness or itching, according to Medline Plus.
Breast changes, such as swelling, discomfort or tenderness, can arise in men and women who take Lupron Depot. Female patients can also experience menstrual changes, such as irregular vaginal bleeding or lack of a menstrual cycle. If these side effects of a Lupron Depot injection occur, affected patients should consult a physician for further care.
Mood Changes
Unusual mood changes may emerge in patients treated with Lupron Depot. Affected patients can experience depression, anxiety and nervousness, or may have difficulty remembering certain information or concentrating while at work, according to Medline Plus. These mood changes can affect a patient's personal relationships and should be discussed with a medical professional if they occur.
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