Zoladex 10.8mg – Pre-filled Syringe of 10.8mg Injection

Zoladex 10.8mg is an injectable luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist used to treat prostate cancer, breast cancer, and endometriosis. This subcutaneous depot injection slowly releases medication over 12 weeks, effectively suppressing sex hormones for treating hormone-sensitive conditions.

Uses

Under medical supervision, Zoladex 10.8mg injections can:

• Treat prostate cancer when antiandrogen therapy is not appropriate
• Suppress estrogen receptor-positive advanced breast cancer growth pre-surgery
• Manage endometriosis symptoms like pelvic pain and discomfort
• Provide an add-on treatment option alongside other therapies
• Central precocious puberty
• Transgender hormone therapy

Benefits

• Provides convenient 12-week dosing schedule
• Delivers consistent hormone level control
• Minimizes testosterone flare symptoms
• Allows for simple subcutaneous administration
• Reduces frequency of office visits compared to monthly injections
• Effectively suppresses hormone production
• Helps manage symptoms of hormone-sensitive conditions
• Offers reversible hormonal intervention
• Compatible with other treatment modalities

How It Works

Zoladex initially causes a temporary rise in circulating sex hormones, followed by sustained suppression of testosterone or estrogen production. By continuously occupying LHRH receptors, it desensitizes the pituitary gland, reducing signals that stimulate sex hormone production. This mechanism effectively slows progression of hormone-sensitive conditions.

Dosage

Administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically in the anterior abdominal wall, by a healthcare professional.

Duration of Action

Zoladex 10.8mg begins working immediately after injection, with initial hormone surge lasting 1-2 weeks. Hormone suppression occurs by week 3 and maintains therapeutic levels for the full 12-week period. Effects gradually reverse after discontinuation, with hormone levels typically returning to baseline within 12-24 weeks after the final dose.

Side Effects

Common side effects include hot flashes, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction in men, and menopausal symptoms in women. Pain or irritation at the injection site may occur. Some patients experience headaches, mood changes, decreased bone density with long-term use, changes in blood glucose levels, or altered lipid profiles.

Warning

A temporary worsening of symptoms may occur during the first two weeks due to initial hormone surge. Patients with known hypersensitivity to LHRH agonists should avoid Zoladex. Seek immediate medical attention for signs of allergic reaction including shortness of breath, throat closure, facial swelling, or hives.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Zoladex 10.8mg is contraindicated during pregnancy and may cause fetal harm. Effective non-hormonal contraception should be used during treatment and for 12 weeks after the final dose. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment as it’s unknown if goserelin passes into breast milk.

Interaction

• May interact with medications affecting pituitary gonadal function
• Potential QT interval prolongation when combined with certain antiarrhythmics
• Possible reduced effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives
• May alter blood glucose levels in diabetic patients
• Potential interaction with anticoagulants requiring monitoring

Precaution

Regular bone density monitoring recommended during long-term therapy. Patients with metabolic bone disease require special consideration. Those with urinary tract obstruction or spinal cord compression should be closely monitored during initial treatment period. Increased risk of depression requires mental health monitoring. Cardiovascular risk factors should be assessed before treatment.

Important Information

Store unopened Zoladex 10.8mg refrigerated at 2-8°C until expiration. Keep out of reach of children. Report concerning side effects to your physician promptly. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor treatment efficacy and manage side effects. Long-term use requires periodic assessment of risks versus benefits.