Lupron injections are a medication primarily used to reduce the risk of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer recurrence in pre-menopausal women after surgery and other treatments. They are also sometimes used to help preserve fertility during chemotherapy and other treatments.
Lupron (leuprolide acetate) is a synthetic hormone that acts as a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist. This means it initially stimulates, but then eventually suppresses, the production of estrogen in women and testosterone in men. By lowering estrogen levels in pre-menopausal women, it can effectively reduce the fuel source for hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer cells, thereby lowering the risk of recurrence.
Uses of Lupron Injections
Lupron injections have a variety of uses, including:
- Breast Cancer Treatment: As mentioned above, it's used to help prevent the recurrence of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in pre-menopausal women.
- Fertility Preservation: Lupron can be used to temporarily suppress ovarian function during chemotherapy, potentially protecting eggs from damage and improving the chances of future fertility.
- Endometriosis: It can alleviate pain and reduce the size of endometrial implants.
- Uterine Fibroids: It can shrink uterine fibroids and reduce heavy bleeding.
- Prostate Cancer: Lupron is also used to treat prostate cancer in men by lowering testosterone levels.
- Precocious Puberty: It can delay the onset of puberty in children who experience it too early.
How Lupron Works
Lupron works by initially stimulating the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). However, with continuous administration, the pituitary gland becomes desensitized, leading to a suppression of LH and FSH release. This, in turn, decreases the production of estrogen in women and testosterone in men.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Lupron injections in women may include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes
- Bone loss (with long-term use)
Because Lupron lowers estrogen levels, it can cause symptoms similar to menopause. It's important to discuss the potential side effects with your doctor before starting treatment.
Important Considerations
Lupron injections are a powerful medication and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The duration of treatment and the appropriate dosage will depend on the individual's specific condition and medical history. Bone density monitoring may be necessary during long-term use due to the risk of bone loss.
