Lupron Depot Kit (Leuprolide Acetate)

Do’s

• Lupron Depot is given by injection into a muscle (intramuscular injection) by a healthcare provider.
• If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare provider and the product package.
• Wash your hands and properly mix the medication as instructed.
• Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin.
• Inject each dose within 2 hours of mixing. If more than 2 hours have passed since mixing, discard the product and prepare another syringe/dose.
• The dosage and length of treatment of Lupron Depot will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and any lab tests conducted.
• The medication is usually given once every month, but the frequency may vary depending on your specific treatment plan. The product slowly releases the medication into your blood over a 1-month period.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Mark your calendar to keep track of when to receive the next dose.
• During the first few weeks of treatment, your hormone levels may actually go up before they go down. This is a normal response to the medication. It is possible that your symptoms may temporarily worsen during this period.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. It may take at least 3 months for your symptoms to improve.

Common Side Effects:

• Hot flashes/sweats
• Injection site reaction/pain
• General pain
• Swelling
• Testicular shrinkage (in men)
• Difficulty urinating
• Fatigue/weakness
• Headache
• Joint, gastrointestinal, and respiratory problems

Less Common but Potentially Serious Side Effects:

• Heart problems
• Weaker bones
• Hypoestrogenic effects (such as galactorrhea, pyelonephritis, and urinary incontinence in some cases)

Not all individuals will experience these side effects, and the severity and frequency may vary. If you experience any side effects or have concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Lupron Depot may cause an initial rise in gonadotropins and sex steroid levels, which can temporarily worsen symptoms before improvement occurs.

Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported with Lupron Depot. Seek immediate medical care if you experience symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction.

Long-term use of Lupron Depot may have an adverse impact on bone mineral density. Bone mineral testing is recommended before starting treatment and during therapy if a second course is being considered.

There is an increased risk of myocardial infarction, sudden cardiac death, and stroke associated with Lupron Depot treatment. Report any signs or symptoms associated with these events to your healthcare provider.

In patients with vertebral metastases, urinary obstruction, or hematuria, there is a concern that Lupron Depot may exacerbate symptoms, leading to temporary weakness, paresthesia of the lower limbs, or worsening urinary symptoms.

Lupron Depot may cause harm to an unborn child. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Lupron Depot may interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.