How should I use leuprolide?
Leuprolide is given as an injection under the skin or into a muscle. Your doctor, nurse, or
other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to inject your
medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the
injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.
This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these
directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Leuprolide may be given once every month or once every 3 to 6 months. How often you
receive this medication will depend on the condition being treated. Follow your doctor's
instructions.
Because different brands or strengths of leuprolide are used to treat different conditions, it
is very important that you receive exactly the brand and strength your doctor has prescribed. If
you self-inject this medication at home, always check your medication to make sure you have
received the correct brand and type prescribed by your doctor.
Your symptoms may become temporarily worse as your hormones adjust when you
first start using this medication. For best results, keep using the medication as instructed by your
doctor. Your condition should eventually improve with continued use of leuprolide.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested
often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with leuprolide. You may still
need blood tests for up to 3 months after you stop using leuprolide to check your hormone levels
and pituitary gland function. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
Store
Lupron in the original carton at room temperature, away
from moisture and heat.
Store Eligard in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. You may take the
medicine out and allow it to reach room temperature before mixing and injecting your dose.
After the dose is mixed, you must use the injection within 30 minutes.
Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof
container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this
container out of the reach of children and pets.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.
Women who miss more than one leuprolide dose may have breakthrough bleeding.
Children who miss more than one dose may have a return of pubertal symptoms such as breast
development, growth in the testicles, or menstrual periods.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this
medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include weakness, or irritation where the leuprolide shot was
given.
What should I avoid while using leuprolide?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity
while you are using leuprolide.
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