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Lupron Drug Information
Lupron® (leuprolide acetate) is a medication prescribed to treat the symptoms caused by advanced prostate cancer. It is also approved to help stop puberty in children with central precocious puberty, a condition in which puberty starts too soon. This medicine is available as an injection that is given just under the skin (subcutaneously) once daily.
Lupron works by blocking production of sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone). For prostate cancer symptoms, Lupron works to decrease testosterone levels in the body. This can help slow down the growth of testosterone-sensitive prostate cancer cells. For precocious puberty, this drug works by stopping the production of sex hormones (testosterone in boys and estrogen in girls).
Although the drug is generally well tolerated, it is not suitable for everyone. Before using Lupron, make sure your healthcare provider has up-to-date information on your medical history and a list of your current medications. In particular, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you have osteoporosis, diabetes, or depression
(Click Lupron for more information on using this drug. Topics discussed in this article include dosing guidelines, potential side effects of the medication, and safety issues to be aware of.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD