Leuprorelin/norethisterone acetate

Leuprorelin/Norethisterone Acetate

Leuprorelin, also known as Leuprolide, is a Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH agonist) used in the treatment of prostate cancer, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and central precocious puberty. It works by reducing the production of certain hormones in the body, such as estrogen and testosterone, which can help slow the growth of certain types of cancer cells and reduce symptoms of certain conditions.

Norethisterone Acetate (NETA), also known as norethindrone acetate, is a progestin medication which is used in birth control pills, menopausal hormone therapy, and for the treatment of gynecological disorders. It works by preventing ovulation, altering the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and changing the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.

The combination of leuprorelin and norethisterone acetate is used in the treatment of endometriosis. The leuprorelin reduces the production of estrogen in the body, which can help to reduce the growth of endometrial tissue. The norethisterone acetate is used to help manage the symptoms of endometriosis, such as pain and irregular menstrual bleeding.

Pharmacology

Leuprorelin is a GnRH agonist, which means it works by binding to GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland. This initially causes an increase in the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn increases the production of estrogen and testosterone. However, with continued use, the pituitary gland becomes desensitized to the drug and the production of LH and FSH decreases, leading to a decrease in the production of estrogen and testosterone.

Norethisterone acetate is a progestin, which means it works by binding to and activating the progesterone receptor. This has a number of effects, including preventing ovulation, altering the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and changing the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.

Side Effects

Common side effects of leuprorelin/norethisterone acetate include hot flashes, mood changes, decreased libido, and changes in menstrual bleeding. Less common side effects can include bone loss, changes in body fat distribution, and changes in blood sugar levels.

See Also

• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist
• Progestin
• Endometriosis
• Prostate cancer
• Uterine fibroids
• Central precocious puberty