Eligard (leuprorelin acetate) is a hormone therapy used to treat advanced prostate cancer. It belongs to a class of medicines called LHRH agonists (also known as GnRH agonists). By reducing testosterone levels in the body, Eligard helps slow the growth of prostate cancer cells that rely on testosterone to grow.

How it works:

Prostate cancer cells are often stimulated to grow by testosterone. Leuprorelin works by initially increasing, then dramatically lowering the production of testosterone in the testes. After about 2 to 4 weeks of treatment, testosterone falls to castrate levels (very low), reducing the fuel available for cancer cells to grow.

This is called androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or medical castration. It does not cure prostate cancer but can significantly slow its progression and reduce symptoms.

Note: In the first 1 to 2 weeks of treatment, testosterone levels temporarily rise before falling. This can cause a brief worsening of symptoms called a "flare." Your doctor will discuss whether you need additional medicine to manage this.

Your dose:

Eligard is available in formulations lasting 1, 3, 4, or 6 months. Your oncologist or urologist will choose the most appropriate formulation for your situation. It is given as a subcutaneous injection under the skin, administered by a healthcare professional.

What to expect:

• Eligard is injected under the skin of the abdomen by a nurse or doctor
• The medicine is released slowly over weeks to months from the injection site
• Keep all scheduled injection appointments to ensure continuous testosterone suppression

Before you start:

• Tell your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take
• Let your doctor know if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, osteoporosis, or seizures
• Your doctor may start an anti-androgen medicine (such as bicalutamide) for a few weeks before and after the first injection to manage the initial testosterone flare

Eligard is given by your healthcare team.

If you miss a scheduled appointment:

• Contact your urology or oncology team as soon as possible to rebook
• Gaps in treatment can allow testosterone to rise again, potentially allowing cancer to progress

Contact your doctor or go to your nearest emergency department if you experience any of the following after an injection:

• Severe allergic reaction: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, severe rash
• Sudden neurological symptoms: Weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking (which may indicate spinal cord compression, especially if you have bone metastases)

Eligard is stored and prepared by your healthcare team.

If you are given a pack to bring to your appointment:

• Store in the fridge at 2°C to 8°C
• Do not freeze
• Allow to come to room temperature before the injection is prepared
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Side effects of Eligard are largely related to the reduction in testosterone. They are common and expected with long-term ADT.

• Hot flushes: Very common, affecting most men on ADT. They are not dangerous but can be bothersome
• Reduced libido and sexual function: A direct result of lower testosterone levels
• Fatigue: Common and can be significant. Gentle regular exercise can help
• Mood changes and depression: Some men notice changes in mood. Tell your doctor if you feel persistently low
• Bone density loss: Long-term ADT reduces bone density, increasing fracture risk. Your doctor may recommend calcium, vitamin D, or bone-strengthening medicines
• Muscle loss and weight changes: Reduced muscle mass and increased body fat are common with long-term testosterone suppression
• Cardiovascular effects: ADT is associated with increased risk of heart disease in some men, particularly those with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors
• Injection site reactions: Mild redness or discomfort at the injection site is common

Contact your doctor if any side effect concerns you, particularly mood changes or bone pain.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist everything you are taking.

Key considerations include:

• Medicines that affect heart rhythm (QT-prolonging medicines): Leuprorelin can prolong the QT interval. Extra care is needed alongside other medicines with this effect
• Blood thinners (such as warfarin): Hormone therapy can affect how some blood thinners work. Monitoring may be needed

Never start, stop, or change any medicine without speaking to your doctor first.

Will I lose my hair on Eligard?

Hair loss of the type associated with chemotherapy is not a common side effect of Eligard. However, because testosterone affects body hair and head hair differently, some men notice changes in body hair distribution over time.

How long will I need to be on Eligard?

The duration of treatment depends on your cancer stage, how you respond, and your overall health. Some men are on ADT for a fixed period alongside other treatments (such as radiation therapy), while others remain on it long-term. Your oncologist or urologist will guide you on the planned duration and reassess regularly.

What can I do about hot flushes?

Hot flushes are one of the most common side effects of ADT. Strategies that may help include dressing in layers, avoiding triggers such as hot drinks, spicy food, and alcohol, regular exercise, and in some cases, medicines such as venlafaxine or low-dose medroxyprogesterone. Discuss options with your doctor.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.