Lupron, the brand name of the medication leuprolide, treats the symptoms of prostate cancer in men and endometriosis and uterine fibroids in women. It also can treat precocious puberty in male and female children. Those interested in using Lupron for any of these conditions should talk to a doctor about the potential benefits and risks of doing so before using the medication.
Use
A doctor, nurse or other health-care provider may administer this medication through an injection at a doctor's office, but some individuals taking Lupron learn to inject the medication themselves at home. Those who self-inject the medication should carefully check to ensure they have received the correct strength and brand prescribed by their doctor, as specific instructions and dosages vary depending upon the specific condition being treated. Some individuals may need their blood tested while taking the medication to ensure it is having the desired effect and not causing any unwelcome side effects.
Side Effects
Lupron may cause a number of side effects, according to Medline Plus. Changes in weight or appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, sweating, dizziness, headache, weakness, constipation or diarrhea and an increased need to urinate may occur. In addition, women taking Lupron may experience vaginal discharge or itching, vaginal dryness, absence of menstrual periods, unusual menstrual spotting or breast tenderness. Men who take Lupron may experience a decrease in the size of testicles or an inability to perform sexually. Both men and women may experience a change in breast size and a decrease in sexual desire as well. Other possible side effects include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, sleep problems, depression, swelling, flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, hair loss, acne and changes to the skin surrounding the injection spot. Although serious side effects are rare, they require immediate medical attention: inability to move arms or legs, testicular or prostate pain, bone pain, blood in urine, painful urination, numbness, tingling, weakness or pain in the feet or lower legs. Hives, rash or itching may indicate an allergic reaction to the medication and also require emergency medical attention.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Lupron may cause birth defects if used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use effective birth control while taking Lupron and immediately call a doctor if an unplanned pregnancy occurs during treatment. This medication also may harm a nursing infant, so breastfeeding mothers should talk to a doctor about their options before using this medication.
Considerations
Individuals with a history of asthma, osteoporosis, epilepsy, depression, bone cancer, blood in urine or difficulty urinating, migraines, heart disease or kidney disease should talk to a doctor before using Lupron. These conditions may increase the risk of medical complications while using Lupron. Those allergic to leuprolide, buserelin, goserelin, histrelin, nafarelin and women with abnormal, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding should not use this medication, according to Drugs.com.
Misconceptions
Lupron typically causes women to stop ovulating or having menstrual periods, but this doesn't necessarily mean that pregnancy is not possible. All women taking Lupron should continue using an effective barrier method of birth control.
Warning
In April 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration made an announcement regarding preliminary and ongoing research that suggests GnRH agonists, like Lupron, may increase the risk of diabetes or cardiovascular events. Individuals should discuss current research about these risks with their doctor on a regular basis to ensure they have the latest and most accurate information regarding this issue.
