ELIGARD 45MG INJ

What is ELIGARD 45MG Injection?

ELIGARD 45MG Injection is an antineoplastic (anticancer) and hormonal therapy medicine containing Leuprolide Acetate 45 mg. It belongs to the class of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. It is given as a subcutaneous depot injection that slowly releases the drug over 6 months.

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What is the use of ELIGARD 45MG Injection?

• Used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer in men.

• Helps in reducing testosterone levels (medical castration), which slows down the growth of prostate cancer cells.

• May also be used in conditions where suppression of sex hormones is required (off-label use as decided by a doctor).

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Benefits of ELIGARD 45MG Injection:

• Provides long-term control of prostate cancer progression.

• Convenient 6-month depot formulation (reduces frequent dosing).

• Helps relieve prostate cancer-related symptoms like bone pain and urinary problems.

• Can be used in combination with other anticancer therapies.

• Non-surgical alternative to orchiectomy (surgical castration).

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Side Effects of ELIGARD 45MG Injection:

Like all hormonal therapies, ELIGARD may cause some side effects:

• Common side effects:

  • Hot flashes, sweating

  • Fatigue, weakness

  • Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)

  • Headache, joint pain

  • Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction

• Less common but possible:

  • Mood changes, depression

  • Weight gain

  • Bone thinning (osteoporosis) with long-term use

  • Increased blood sugar or cholesterol levels

• Serious side effects (seek medical help):

  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

  • Heart problems (chest pain, palpitations)

  • Spinal cord compression (in patients with advanced cancer spread to bones)

Q1. What is ELIGARD 45MG Injection used for?
ELIGARD 45MG is used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It lowers testosterone levels, which helps slow cancer growth.

Q2. How does ELIGARD 45MG work?
It contains Leuprolide Acetate, a GnRH agonist. It reduces the production of testosterone (male hormone) that fuels prostate cancer cells.

Q3. How often is ELIGARD 45MG given?
ELIGARD 45MG is a depot injection given once every 6 months, providing continuous hormone suppression.

Q4. How is ELIGARD 45MG administered?
It is given as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) by a healthcare professional, usually in the abdomen or upper arm.

Q5. Does ELIGARD 45MG cure prostate cancer?
No, it does not cure cancer but helps in controlling the disease, slowing progression, and improving quality of life.

Q6. What are the common side effects of ELIGARD 45MG?
Hot flashes, fatigue, injection site pain, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and sweating are common side effects.

Q7. Can ELIGARD 45MG cause bone weakness?
Yes, long-term use can lead to osteoporosis (bone thinning). Doctors may recommend calcium, vitamin D, or bone-strengthening medicines.

Q8. Will I experience pain after injection?
Mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site is common, but usually temporary.

Q9. Does ELIGARD 45MG affect fertility?
Yes, it lowers testosterone and can reduce sperm production, leading to infertility in men.

Q10. Can ELIGARD 45MG be used in women?
It is mainly prescribed for men with prostate cancer. Rarely, leuprolide may be used in women for certain hormone-related conditions, but not with this formulation.

Q11. How long does it take for ELIGARD 45MG to work?
Testosterone suppression usually occurs within 2–4 weeks of injection, with noticeable symptom relief in a few weeks.

Q12. What should I avoid while on ELIGARD 45MG?

• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol (to protect bone health).

• Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to reduce side effects like weight gain and fatigue.

Q13. Can I take other medicines while on ELIGARD 45MG?
Yes, but always inform your doctor. Some medicines may interact, especially those affecting heart rhythm or blood sugar.

Q14. What monitoring is needed during ELIGARD therapy?
Regular PSA levels, testosterone tests, bone scans, and blood sugar/lipid checks are required to track treatment response.

Q15. Is ELIGARD 45MG safe for elderly patients?
Yes, it is commonly used in elderly men with prostate cancer, but requires careful monitoring for heart, bone, and metabolic health.