Brand name:
Zoladex
Pronounced: ZO-luh-dex
Generic name:
Goserelin acetate
Why is Zoladex prescribed?
Zoladex relieves the symptoms of advanced prostate cancer in men
and advanced breast cancer in premenopausal women. In combination
with other forms of therapy, it is also prescribed during treatment
of early prostate cancer.
In addition, it can be used in the treatment of endometriosis, a
condition in which tissue from the lining of the uterus invades the
abdomen. If you are scheduled for surgical removal of the lining,
the drug may be used to thin the lining prior to the operation.
Zoladex works by reducing levels of testosterone in men and
estrogen in women. These hormones can encourage the growth of
certain cancers.
Most important fact about Zoladex
Symptoms may actually get worse during the first few weeks of
therapy. However, as hormone levels subside, you should begin to
feel an improvement.
How should you take Zoladex?
Doses are implanted under the skin of the upper abdomen every 4
or 12 weeks by your physician or a nurse.
--If you miss a dose...
Make an appointment as soon as possible.
Zoladex side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Zoladex.
- Side effects may include:
Acne,
application site reactions,
breast development in men or enlargement in women,
breast tenderness or pain,
change in sex-drive,
depression,
dizziness,
emotional problems,
flu symptoms,
fluid retention and swelling,
hair growth in women,
headache,
hot flashes,
infection,
insomnia,
lethargy,
loss of appetite,
loss of breast tissue in women,
lung problems,
nausea,
nervousness,
pain,
rash,
sexual impairment,
sore throat,
sweating,
urinary problems,
vaginal dryness,
vaginal inflammation,
voice changes,
weak heart,
weakness,
weight gain
Why should Zoladex not be prescribed?
If Zoladex gives you an allergic reaction, it cannot be used. It
should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and if
you have unexplained abnormal vaginal bleeding. Women of
childbearing age should use nonhormonal contraceptive measures while
taking Zoladex.
Special warnings about Zoladex
Zoladex therapy can weaken the bones and cause bone pain. In men
under treatment for prostate cancer, it has been known to cause
osteoporosis and fractures. If you are a heavy drinker, smoke a lot,
have family members with brittle bones, or take anticonvulsant drugs
(such as Dilantin) or steroids (such as prednisone), make sure your
doctor is aware of the situation.
Men with a blockage in the tube from the kidney to the bladder
(the ureter) or a case of spinal cord compression should get
treatment for these conditions before beginning Zoladex therapy.
Severe allergic reactions, including hives and swelling of the
lips and throat, have been reported with drugs similar to Zoladex.
If these symptoms occur, call your doctor immediately.
When given with sex hormones, Zoladex may lead to overstimulation
of the ovaries. It has also been known to cause ovarian cysts.
Women should remember that even though Zoladex stops
menstruation, it is possible to become pregnant if you miss a dose.
Since Zoladex could harm the developing baby, it's important to
observe strict contraceptive precautions throughout Zoladex therapy.
If you are taking Zoladex to relieve endometriosis, your doctor
may recommend hormone-replacement therapy to limit the effects of
the reduced estrogen levels that result from Zoladex therapy.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zoladex
No interactions have been reported.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Zoladex can harm developing babies and newborn infants. It must
not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Zoladex
Typically, the doctor will implant a dose of 3.6 milligrams every
4 weeks. Treatment for endometriosis lasts no longer than 6 months.
Cancer therapy generally continues for a longer term.
For prostate cancer, the doctor can administer a longer lasting
implant of 10.8 milligrams every 12 weeks. When the drug is given
with Flutamide, the treatment is one 3.6-millgram implant followed
by one 10.8-milligram implant 4 weeks later.
If the drug is being used in preparation for endometrial surgery,
you'll receive 1 or 2 implants before the operation.
Overdosage
An overdose of Zoladex is highly unlikely, and if one were to
occur, it would not cause any harm.
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