Product Introduction:
Luprodex 22.5mg is a Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) agonist used to suppress sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) in patients with hormone-responsive conditions. It offers extended control with biannual dosing, making it suitable for long-term therapeutic management. The drug is administered intramuscularly under medical supervision.
Uses:
Luprodex 22.5mg is indicated for:
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Advanced Prostate Cancer – to lower testosterone levels
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Endometriosis – to reduce estrogen and control symptoms
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Uterine Fibroids – to shrink fibroids pre-surgery or manage bleeding
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Central Precocious Puberty (CPP) – to delay early puberty in children
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Hormone-responsive Breast Cancer (in premenopausal women – off-label use)
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In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) – as part of ovarian suppression in fertility protocols
Storage Instructions:
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Store below 25°C (77°F)
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Protect from light and moisture
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Do not freeze
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Reconstituted solution should be used immediately
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Keep out of reach of children
How It Works (Mechanism of Action):
Leuprolide Acetate acts by mimicking GnRH. Initially, it stimulates the release of LH and FSH, causing a temporary spike in sex hormones. Continuous administration results in downregulation of pituitary GnRH receptors, leading to a sharp decline in LH and FSH, which ultimately reduces estrogen or testosterone production, halting the growth of hormone-dependent tumors or tissues.
Side Effects:
Common side effects include:
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Hot flashes
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Headache
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Tiredness
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Mood swings
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Decreased libido
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Sweating
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Vaginal dryness (in women)
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Injection site reactions (pain, swelling)
Serious side effects include:
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Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
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Depression or anxiety
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Increased blood sugar (risk of diabetes)
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Prolonged QT interval (heart rhythm issues)
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Tumor flare (temporary worsening of symptoms at start)
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Severe allergic reactions (rash, difficulty breathing, facial swelling)
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
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22.5 mg intramuscular injection administered once every 6 months (24 weeks)
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Dosage schedule may vary depending on indication and patient response
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Administered under medical supervision only
Method of Administration:
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Deep intramuscular (IM) injection into the gluteal muscle
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Requires reconstitution with provided sterile diluent before administration
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Must be given by a qualified healthcare professional
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Do not self-administer
Precautions:
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Not to be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding
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Use non-hormonal contraception during treatment
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Monitor for mood changes, bone density loss, and blood glucose levels
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Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, psychiatric illness, or osteoporosis
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Initial tumor flare is possible in prostate cancer – may need additional medications initially
Drug Interactions:
Luprodex 22.5mg may interact with:
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QT-prolonging medications (e.g., certain antibiotics, antidepressants, antiarrhythmics)
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Diabetes medications – may alter blood sugar control
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Corticosteroids – can increase bone loss
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Other hormone therapies or anti-cancer drugs
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Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, herbs, and supplements being taken
Allergies:
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Contraindicated in patients allergic to Leuprolide Acetate, GnRH agonists, or any excipients in the formulation
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Watch for signs of anaphylaxis, rash, itching, or swelling immediately after injection
Overdose Information:
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Overdose is rare with depot formulations
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Symptoms may include prolonged hormone suppression, fatigue, or mood changes
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No specific antidote available – supportive medical care is essential
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In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical help
Missed Dose Instructions:
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If a scheduled dose is missed, consult your doctor as soon as possible
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Hormone levels may rebound if the dose is delayed
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Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one
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Do not self-medicate or change the dosing schedule
Additional Notes:
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Patients may require calcium and vitamin D supplements to support bone health
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Regular monitoring of PSA (for prostate cancer) or hormone levels is recommended
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May carry a medical alert card indicating use of GnRH therapy
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Inform all treating physicians and dentists about this treatment before procedures
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Periodic DEXA scans (bone density tests) may be advised in long-term therapy
