Leuprolide: Comprehensive Research Guide

Overview

Leuprolide (Lupron, Eligard) is a synthetic nonapeptide analog of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). It acts as a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist and is used to treat hormone-sensitive cancers, endometriosis, and precocious puberty.

Mechanism of Action

Hormone Suppression

• Initial Stimulation: Initially stimulates LH and FSH release
• **Downregulation': After initial surge, suppresses gonadotropin release
• **Hormone Reduction': Reduces testosterone and estrogen levels
• **Tumor Control': Controls hormone-sensitive tumors

Therapeutic Effects

• **Prostate Cancer': Suppresses testosterone in prostate cancer
• **Endometriosis': Suppresses estrogen in endometriosis
• **Precocious Puberty': Delays puberty in children
• **Uterine Fibroids': Reduces fibroid size

Research Applications

Medical Applications

• **Prostate Cancer': Treatment of advanced prostate cancer
• **Endometriosis': Treatment of endometriosis
• **Precocious Puberty': Treatment of precocious puberty
• **Uterine Fibroids': Treatment of uterine fibroids

Research

• **Hormone Research': Research into hormone regulation
• **Cancer Research': Research into hormone-sensitive cancers

Dosage

• **Prostate Cancer': 7.5 mg monthly or 22.5 mg every 3 months
• **Endometriosis': 3.75 mg monthly
• **Precocious Puberty': Dose varies by weight
• **Administration': Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection

Side Effects

• **Hot Flashes': Common hot flashes
• **Libido': Decreased libido
• **Fatigue': Possible fatigue
• **Mood Changes': Possible mood changes
• **Bone Loss': Long-term bone density loss

Storage

• **Temperature': 2-8°C (refrigerated)
• **Light': Protect from light
• **Stability': Relatively stable

This information is for research and educational purposes only. Leuprolide is a prescription medication.