Eligard (leuprolide acetate) is a prescription hormone medication used to alleviate symptoms associated with the advanced stages of prostate cancer. This medication inhibits the release of a naturally-occurring hormone–called gonadotropin releasing hormone–which helps regulate testosterone levels in the body. Eligard is administered as an injection beneath the skin (subcutaneous injection) once every one, three, four or six months as recommended by your doctor.
Injection Site Reaction
One of the most common side effects associated with Eligard treatment is the development of an injection site reaction. In clinical trials for this medication, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that approximately 18 percent of patients experienced painful sensations at the injection site as a side effect of a once monthly 7.5 mg dose of Eligard. After injecting this medication, you may also experience a burning or stinging sensation at the injection site. Additional injection site reactions can include redness, mild bruising, itching or dryness. The appearance of injection site reactions typically subsides with recurrent use of this medication. Contact your doctor if these injection site reactions are severe or if they become problematic during treatment.
Dizziness or Fatigue
While receiving treatment with Eligard, you can experience abnormal sensations of dizziness or fatigue as a side effect of this medication, warns Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website. Sensations of dizziness can cause you to become unstable when you walk, which may cause you to trip or fall. Excessive fatigue can make it difficult for you to focus or concentrate during the day and may lead to decreased productivity at work or home.
Hot Flashes
During clinical trials, nearly 60 percent of patients receiving a once monthly 7.5 mg dose of Eligard experienced hot flashes or increased sweating as a side effect of treatment, reports the FDA. Hot flashes can cause you to develop a sudden, intense increase in your body temperature, which can be accompanied by skin warmth, sweating or stomach upset. These side effects typically last for several minutes and can occur sporadically during treatment.
About this Author
Rachel R. Ahmed, M.S., is a freelance writer and editor based in San Diego. Ahmed received her M.S. degree in integrated biomedical sciences and has been working as a freelance writer and editor for more than five years. Some of her freelance clients include The Burroughs Wellcome Fund, alzforum.org, MedAngel.org, L3 Communications, and ThinkTank Learning.
