Degarelix
About
Degarelix belongs to the group of medicines called gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists indicated in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is a cancer that occurs in the man’s prostate, a male reproductive gland.
Degarelix contains Degarelix, a synthetic hormone blocker which works by decreasing the amount of testosterone and helps to stop or slow the spread of prostate cancer cells that require testosterone for their growth.
In some cases, Degarelix may cause side effects such as injection site reaction and hot flushes. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, if any of the side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
Let the doctor know if you are allergic to any of the components in Degarelix. This medicine is not intended for use in women. Degarelix is not recommended for use in children. Inform your doctor about your health condition and medications to rule out any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Degarelix
Medicinal Benefits
Degarelix belongs to the group of medicines called gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists indicated in the treatment of adult male patients with prostate cancer and high-risk prostate cancer before radiation therapy and in combination with radiotherapy. Degarelix contains Degarelix, a synthetic hormone blocker which works by decreasing the amount of testosterone and helps to stop or slow the spread of prostate cancer cells that require testosterone for their growth. Thereby, it helps treat prostate cancer.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Degarelix
- Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
- Hot flushes
- Weight gain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Tiredness
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not use Degarelix if you are allergic to any of its components. Inform the doctor if you have heart rhythm problems, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, heart, liver or kidney problems, high blood pressure, or high/low blood levels of calcium, potassium, magnesium, or sodium in your blood. Avoid rubbing or scratching the injection site. After you receive a dose of Degarelix, avoid allowing your body fluids to come into contact with your hands or other surfaces for at least 48 hours. Let the doctor know if you are taking any prescription/non-prescription medications, including herbal products and supplements.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking drugs used to treat heart rhythm problems (quinidine, procainamide, amiodarone, sotalol), pain killers (methadone), antibiotics (moxifloxacin), and antipsychotics.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform the doctor if you have heart rhythm problems, diabetes mellitus, or osteoporosis.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is not known whether Degarelix interacts with alcohol. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy
not applicable-
Breast Feeding
not applicable-
Driving
cautionIn some cases, Degarelix may cause dizziness or tiredness. So, drive or operate machinery only if you are alert.
Liver
cautionIf you have a history of liver disease, please inform the doctor before receiving Degarelix. Liver function may need to be monitored in patients with liver disease.
Kidney
cautionIf you have a history of kidney disease, please inform the doctor before receiving Degarelix.
Children
unsafeDegarelix is not recommended for children as the safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain proper weight.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Avoid fast, fried, processed meats, refined carbs, and added sugar.
- Get optimal sleep; rest well.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Prostate cancer: Prostate cancer, also called prostatic carcinoma, is cancer in the prostate gland (a reproductive gland in men that produces seminal fluid). Symptoms include difficulty with urination, weak or interrupted flow of urine, trouble emptying the bladder completely, and pain or burning sensation during urination.
FAQs
Degarelix works by decreasing the amount of testosterone and helps to stop or slow the spread of prostate cancer cells.
Degarelix may decrease fertility. If you have any concerns regarding this, please consult the doctor.
Worsening or onset of diabetes may occur. Therefore, if you have diabetes, inform the doctor. You may need to check your blood glucose levels more regularly if you have diabetes.
