Leuprolide acetate

Leuprolide acetate

Leuprolide acetate is a synthetic nonapeptide analog of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH or LHRH). It acts as an agonist at pituitary GnRH receptors, leading to an initial surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, followed by a profound hypogonadal effect due to receptor downregulation.

Medical Uses

Leuprolide acetate is primarily used in the treatment of hormone-sensitive cancers such as prostate cancer and breast cancer. It is also used in the management of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and precocious puberty. Additionally, it is utilized in assisted reproductive technology (ART) protocols to control ovarian stimulation.

Prostate Cancer

In the treatment of prostate cancer, leuprolide acetate is used to reduce the levels of testosterone, which can stimulate the growth of cancer cells. It is often administered as part of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

Breast Cancer

For breast cancer, particularly in premenopausal women, leuprolide acetate helps to lower estrogen levels, which can fuel the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells.

Endometriosis

Leuprolide acetate is effective in reducing the symptoms of endometriosis by decreasing the production of estrogen, which is involved in the growth of endometrial tissue.

Uterine Fibroids

In the case of uterine fibroids, leuprolide acetate helps to shrink the fibroids and reduce symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.

Precocious Puberty

Leuprolide acetate is used to treat precocious puberty by delaying the onset of puberty until a more appropriate age.

Mechanism of Action

Leuprolide acetate works by initially stimulating the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. However, with continuous administration, it desensitizes the GnRH receptors, leading to a decrease in the production of sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen).

Administration

Leuprolide acetate is available in various formulations, including daily subcutaneous injections, monthly intramuscular injections, and long-acting depot formulations that can be administered every three, four, or six months.

Side Effects

Common side effects of leuprolide acetate include hot flashes, headaches, mood changes, and injection site reactions. Long-term use can lead to decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis.

Related Pages

• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone
• Luteinizing hormone
• Follicle-stimulating hormone
• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Precocious puberty
• Androgen deprivation therapy
• Assisted reproductive technology

Categories

This article is a stub related to medicine. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!