Lupron Depot, commonly referred to simply as "Lupron," is a hormone therapy drug used to treat prostate cancer and enlarged prostate. It works by lowering blood levels of male hormones such as testosterone, which ideprives tumor cells of the hormones they need to thrive. Lupron injections are administered monthly, quarterly or every four months. This drug is also available in the form of an implanted device that is replaced yearly. Several side effects are commonly associated with Lupron, but these do not affect everyone who takes the medication. Most side effects are reversible, and some subside with time.
Hot Flashes
A hot flash is a feeling of intense warmth in the face, neck and chest, often accompanied by sweating. Lupron causes hot flashes as a result of reduced testosterone and the response by the thermal control center of the brain. According to experts at Harvard Medical Center, up to 80 percent of men who receive hormone deprivation therapy such as Lupron will experience hot flashes. Hormone replacement has not been successful in treating men with hot flashes because of the potential for serious side effect. Both antidepressants and anti-seizure medications have been used successfully to treat hot flashes in men.
Impotence
Impotence, clinically known as erectile dysfunction, is an inability to achieve or sustain an erection. Lupron can cause impotence because it slows down testosterone production and affects a man's hormonal balance. Low sexual desire, also a potential side effect of Lupron, can exacerbate the condition. Some men who experience impotence can benefit from the use of sildenafil citrate (brand name Viagra). If you are receiving Lupron, speak with your physician about the safety and effectiveness of any drugs, therapies or devices used to facilitate erection.
Urinary Difficulty
Water retention is a common side effect of Lupron Depot. Men may also have difficulty urinating. This is usually just an initial reaction to the drug, which causes a temporary rise in testosterone before the hormone level drops, and this rise can cause a tumor to swell enough to cause further side effects. This type of "tumor flare" can be prevented with drugs that counter the initial rise in hormone levels. If Lupron Depot is administered long-term, counteractive drugs may also be prescribed on a regular basis.
Pain
Lupron can initially cause headaches, dizziness and flu-like symptoms as well as swelling of the feet and ankles. Some men develop bone pain and, more rarely, muscle or joint pain. Long-term use of Lupron can cause decreased bone density, leading to the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis in those who are at risk.
Member Comments