Lupron, or leuprolide, is a prescription medication classified as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. It used in treatment of advanced prostrate cancer. Lupron is available as a subcutaneous injection and given as a dose of 1 mg per day. Many side effects may occur with the use of this medication. The patient should speak with a physician about any concerns before initiating drug therapy.
Tumor Flare
Lupron therapy may cause tumor flare during the first week of therapy, states “Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach.” Tumor flare is characterized by a worsening of symptoms, which may include bone pain, nerve damage, obstruction of the bladder and blood in the urine. If these symptoms persist, the patient should contact his physician.
Effects on the Heart
Lupron may cause changes in electrocardiogram and decreased blood flow to the heart. According to the “Drug Information Handbook,” these side effects occur in about 19 percent of patients. Patients may experience water retention, which may lead to swelling in the legs. High blood pressure may also be present in about 8 percent of individuals. About 3 percent of individuals may develop a heart murmur. The patient must keep all doctor appointment to make sure he is receiving the proper monitoring.
Pain and Weakness
Pain may occur in users of Lupron. About 13 percent of users may experience this undesired side effect. Bone pain is the most common complaint. The patient may take a pain reliever to help with the pain. This side effect should decrease with continued use of the drug. If the pain becomes severe, the patient should inform his physician right away. About 10 percent of patients may experience general weakness or fatigue. These effects may be bothersome, but are generally not harmful.
Headache and Dizziness
Headache and dizziness are common side effects seen with the use of Lupron. About 7 percent of patients may experience these side effects, but find that they go away as the body adjusts to the drug. The patient should use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery until he knows the effects of the drug.
Nausea, Vomiting and Constipation
Nausea, vomiting and constipation may occur in about 5 percent of users, reports The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Avoiding large, fatty meals and exercising regularly may help with these side effects. Constipation that persists may require the use of a stool softener or laxative; the patient should ask a health care profession for advice before using these. If constipation continues for more than three days, or is accompanied by severe pain, the patient should seek medical help.
Other Side Effects
Hot flashes may occur in about 55 percent of individuals on Lupron. “Pharmacotherapy” reports that erectile dysfunction, decreased libido and injection site reaction are also common with the use Lupron. Injection site reactions include redness, itchiness or pain at the site where the medication is injected.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Leuprolide
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