Role of Lupron Depot in treating Endometriosis

Posted by Asuka on July 3rd, 2019

Lupron Depot (Leuprorelin / leuprolide acetate for depot suspension) is a medication prescribed for treating acute endometriosis in women. It can also be used to lessen certain symptoms such as painful menstrual periods, pelvic pain and abdominal bloating. It is a hormonal agent (GnRH antagonist).

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What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a painful disorder in which the tissue of the lining of the uterus or the endometrium grows outside it. This disorder is generally limited to the ovaries, tissue lining of the pelvis and fallopian tubes.

The affected endometrial tissue thickens over time and becomes trapped when it cannot exit the body during menstrual periods.

When this disorder involves the ovaries, cysts or endometriomas can form. The tissue surrounded by the cysts can get irritated and develop scar tissue & adhesions (fibrous tissue that causes the pelvic tissues to stick to one another)

Leuprolide Side effects

Some side effects from Lupron depot include:

• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Pain in breasts
• Gaining weight
• Pain in joints
• Depression
• Headaches
• Vaginitis
• Hirsutism

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Treatment with Lupron injection for endometriosis

Lupron Depot (Leuprorelin / leuprolide acetate for depot suspension) functions in two stages:

Stage 1

Lurpon (Leuprorelin / leuprolide acetate) prompts the ovaries to increase the production of estradiol (a most potent form of the three kinds of estrogens).

Stage 2

It then causes the hormones (that act as messengers) that enable the ovaries to produce estrogen to decline. The lowered levels of estrogen cause the women to experience side effects similar to menopause.

This medication cannot cure endometriosis but can provide relief from the pain and is effective for several years.

During the first two weeks of receiving the Lupron injection IVF, the levels of reproductive hormones will start to increase which may cause the patient to experience increased side effects.

However, after this period the reproductive hormone starts to decrease to levels that are similar to that of a post-menopausal woman.

During Lupron therapy, most women would stop having menstrual periods.

Lupron medication should not be confused with contraceptives as pregnancy can occur during the first few weeks of receiving the Lupron injection. During the treatment with Leuprorelin / leuprolide acetate, it is recommended to use non-hormonal forms of birth control to prevent pregnancy.

Treatment with Leuprorelin / leuprolide acetate is generally limited to 6 months. Contact your doctor immediately if a pregnancy occurs during this period.

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The information provided on the page is meant for the purpose of being helpful and educational. It should not be considered as medical advice.