Understanding Eligard Prescribing Information: A Guide for Patients
If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, it is essential to understand the treatment options available to you. One of the options that your doctor might recommend is Eligard. But what is Eligard? And how does it work? In this article, we will take a closer look at Eligard prescribing information and provide a guide for patients.
What is Eligard?
Eligard is a prescription drug used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It belongs to a class of medications called LHRH agonists, which work by reducing the amount of testosterone in the body. Testosterone is one of the hormones that can cause prostate cancer cells to grow. By reducing the amount of testosterone, Eligard can slow down the growth of cancer cells and even shrink prostate tumors.
How is Eligard administered?
Eligard is administered as an injection into the fatty tissue under the skin. The injection is given once every one, three, four, or six months, depending on your doctor’s recommendation. It is important to remember that Eligard is a long-acting medication, so you will not need to take it daily.
What are the possible side effects of Eligard?
Like all medications, Eligard can cause side effects. Some of the possible side effects of Eligard include:
– Hot flashes
– Reduced sex drive
– Erectile dysfunction
– Breast tenderness or enlargement
– Fatigue
– Anemia
– Skin reactions at the injection site
If you experience any of these side effects, it is essential to speak to your doctor. They may recommend ways to manage these side effects or adjust your treatment plan.
Who should not take Eligard?
Eligard is not suitable for everyone. You should not take Eligard if you:
– Are allergic to Eligard or any of its ingredients
– Have severe liver or kidney disease
– Have a history of or are at risk of osteoporosis
It is essential to speak to your doctor about your medical history before starting any treatment.
Important information to know
– Eligard may cause a temporary increase in symptoms in the first few weeks of treatment. This is called a “flare-up” and is not a cause for concern.
– Eligard can affect your bone density. Your doctor may recommend regular bone density scans to monitor your bone health.
– Eligard can interact with other medications. It is essential to let your doctor know about any other medications you are taking before starting Eligard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Eligard is a prescription medication used for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It works by reducing the amount of testosterone in the body, slowing down the growth of cancer cells. Eligard is administered as an injection every one, three, four, or six months. Like all medications, Eligard can cause side effects, and it is essential to speak to your doctor if you experience any of these. It is also important to let your doctor know about your medical history and any other medications you are taking before starting Eligard.
