Generic Name: goserelin
Drug Class: Hormone Therapy Medications
Company: AstraZeneca/TerSera
Approval Status: Approved
Generic Version Available: No
Drug Indication
Zoladex is a GnRH agonist approved for palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer and, treatment of localized prostate cancer in combination with Eulexin (flutamide) and palliative treatment of breast cancer in premenopausal women. It is also used to treat ovarian cancer, though it is not FDA-approved for this indication.
General Info
Testosterone and other male hormones (androgens) stimulate prostate cancer growth. Similarly, estrogen promotes the growth of hormone-positive breast cancer. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, also known as luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists, block signals in the brain that direct the testicles to produce testosterone or the ovaries to produce estrogen.
Zoladex is given as a long-acting injection given once a month. Testosterone or estrogen levels usually go up briefly (known as a flare) before falling to very low levels.
Dosage
Dosing Info:
Zoladex is given as a long-acting injection that lasts for three months.
Side Effects
Common side effects include hot flashes, headache and swelling. Medications that lower testosterone may lead to reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction and shrinkage of the testicles. Women may experience decreased sex drive, mood changes, breast shrinkage and vaginal dryness. Potential serious side effects include increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In some cases tumor-related symptoms can worsen before improving. Zoladex should not be used during pregnancy.
For More Info: http://www.aboutzoladex.com/prostate-cancer.html
Patient Assistance Program Info: https://www.astrazeneca-us.com/medicines/Affordability.html
Last Reviewed: December 3, 2018
