What is this medication for?
Leuprolide is a medication that has been designed to act like gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH or LHRH), the hormone released from the hypothalamus gland in the brain. The hypothalamus uses GnRH to send messages to the pituitary gland in the brain, which then sends messages to the ovaries in females and the testicles in males, telling them to produce the sex hormones estrogen (females) and testosterone (males). Normally, GnRH comes from the hypothalamus in pulses, leading to the production of estrogen (females) or testosterone (males). If GnRH came from the hypothalamus all of the time (rather than in "pulses"), it would have the opposite effect, and "turn off" hormone production. This is what leuprolide does.
When given to boys or men, leuprolide reduces the amount of testosterone produced in the body. It is of value in treating prostate cancer because prostate cancer cells need testosterone in order to grow and reproduce.
When given to girls or women, leuprolide reduces the amount of estrogen the body produces. It is used to treat endometriosis because reduced levels of estrogen help to relieve the symptoms of this condition.
This medication is also used to help slow down the development of the genital areas in boys (under the age of 9) and girls (under the age of 8) who are experiencing early puberty. As soon as the child stops using the medication, normal development is allowed to continue.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are being given this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Viadur by Alza is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Leuprolide is an injectable medication and is available as a daily injection (under the skin) or as long-acting injectables (into the muscle every 1, 3, or 4 months). If you are giving yourself or your child daily injections, it is very important to follow the directions as printed on the package insert. Presterilized disposable syringes are supplied and the usual sites of injection are indicated in the package insert.
The long-acting form of this medication (depot) will be injected into your muscle by your doctor or nurse at the appropriate intervals. It is very important to receive this medication at the correct times. If you miss your appointment for an injection, make a new one as soon as possible.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not administer a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Leuprolide should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to GnRH, GnRH agonist analogs, leuprolide, or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is a female
- is pregnant