Lupron is a medication used in women to suppress the action of the ovaries. Lupron causes the ovaries to stop producing estrogen. Stopping estrogen production may be used to treat conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids. Lupron may also be used to treat infertility. Unfortunately, Lupron leads to menopausal-like symptoms, including bone loss, which may not be reversible once Lupron therapy is completed.
Menopausal Symptoms
Lupron is used to block the action of two female hormones, FSH and LH, in premenopausal women. This will eventually cause the ovaries to stop producing estrogen. This means that monthly menstrual periods will stop. Because the ovaries stop producing estrogen, like in menopause, menopausal-like symptoms occur. These may include hot flashes, night sweats, hair loss, depression, weight gain, fluid retention and bone loss. These symptoms, if severe, may interfere with normal activities. Additionally, the FDA reports that in 1/3 of women treated with Lupron for 6 months, 7.3 percent of bone loss will occur. It is unclear if this loss of bone mass can be replaced.
Lessens Symptoms of Endometriosis
Lupron may be used in treating endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition where uterine-like cells migrate outside the uterus and become sensitive to estrogen stimulation during menstruation. Women with severe endometriosis have painful menstruation and experience heavy periods and pelvic pain, which may affect quality of life. Lupron effectively shuts down the ovary and stops menstruation. This allows the uterine tissue to "rest." Hopefully, when menstrual cycles resume following Lupron therapy, there will be less pain. Lupron is indicated for six months.
Stimulates Egg Production Temporarily
Lupron has also been used in the treatment of infertility. Because Lupron initially causes the ovary to become overactive, multiple eggs may be released rather than just one. This is referred to as a Lupron "flair." If Lupron is continued, the ovaries will eventually stop producing estrogen. Lupron is then prescribed for a predetermined time to suppress the ovaries. When Lupron is discontinued, estrogen again begins to stimulate the ovary to produce eggs. The hope is that the eggs produced will be of better quality.
Shrinks Uterine Fibroids
The United States Department of Health estimates that endometriosis and uterine fibroids affect more than 5 million women, leading to chronic dysmenorrhea, or painful periods. Uterine fibroids are benign tumors composed of muscle tissue that grow in the uterus in response to estrogen. They often cause painful periods and increased blood loss, leading to anemia or low iron in the blood. Depending upon their size, surgery is sometimes indicated to remove fibroids. But Lupron may be used if surgery is contraindicated. Because Lupron causes the ovaries to stop producing estrogen, in many cases fibroid tumors will shrink.
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