The basics
Goserelin (brand name- Zoladex) is an FDA-approved treatment combined with radiation therapy and other medications for localized prostate cancer and alone to treat the symptoms associated with advanced prostate cancer. Sometimes, Goserelin can also used to treat advanced breast cancer in certain women.
It is also used to manage endometriosis (a condition in which the type of tissue that lines the uterus [womb] grows in other areas of the body and causes pain, heavy or irregular menstruation [periods], and other symptoms) and to help with the treatment of abnormal bleeding of the uterus.
Goserelin implant is in a class of medications called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. It works by decreasing the amount of certain hormones in the body.
Let us walk you through the key things you need to know about Goserelin.
How should I take Goserelin (Zoladex)?
Goserelin comes as an implant to be inserted with a syringe subcutaneously (under the skin) in your stomach area by a doctor or nurse in a medical facility. An implant with 3.6 mg of goserelin is usually inserted every 4 weeks. An implant with 10.8 mg of goserelin is usually inserted every 12 weeks. The length of your treatment depends on the condition being treated and your response to the medication. Your doctor will determine how long you should use goserelin implant.
Goserelin may cause an increase in certain hormones in the first few weeks after insertion of the implant. Your doctor will monitor you carefully for any new or worsening symptoms during this time.
Do not stop taking treatment without talking to your doctor. You can help them by tracking your side effects in Ankr.
What are the side effects of Goserelin (Zoladex)?
Common side effects
- headache
- hot flashes (a sudden wave of mild or intense body heat)
- sweating
- sudden reddening of the face, neck, or upper chest
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- hives
- rash
- itching
- breast pain or change in breast size in women
- decreased sexual desire or ability
- painful sexual intercourse
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- pain, itching, swelling, or redness at the place of plant insertion
- dry mouth
- nausea
- vomiting
- extreme thirst
- weakness
- breath that smells fruity
Serious side effects
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- chest pain
- pain in the arms, back, neck, or jaw
- slow or difficult speech
- dizziness
- fainting
- weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
- bone pain
- vaginal discharge, dryness, or itching
- not able to move legs
- painful or difficult urination
- frequent urination
- blurred vision
- decreased consciousness
- depression
- nervousness
- unable to control emotions and frequent mood changes
Goserelin implant may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication. If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Use the free Ankr platform or Ankr app to track your symptoms.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before receiving a goserelin implant
- tell your doctor and pharmacist about your allergies
- tell your doctor about other intakes
- tell your doctor if you have or ever had any other disease, symptom, or treatment
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Pregnant women should not receive Goserelin implant until breast cancer treatment is needed
While you are on goserelin implant therapy
- call your doctor right away if you think you have become pregnant during your treatment. Goserelin implant may harm the fetus.Talk to your doctor about the types of birth control that are right for you, and continue to use birth control even though you should not have regular menstrual periods during your treatment.
- tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You should not breast-feed during your treatment with goserelin implant.
I forgot a dose. What should I do?
If you miss an appointment to receive an implant of goserelin, you should call your healthcare provider right away to reschedule your appointment.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Brand names
- Zoladex®
Other names
- Decapeptide I
Last Revised – 06/15/2023, FDA updated-06/15/2018, SG
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