Zoladex

What is it?

A gonadotrophin release hormone analogue available as a solution in single dose, biodegradable depot injection containing 3.6mg of goserelin acetate. Also, ZOLADEX LA, 10.8mg of goserelin as acetate available in same format as Zoladex.

Medical Uses

Zoladex, endometriosis, down- regulation of pituitary gland before assisted conception procedure, advanced breast cancer in pre-menopausal women and those near menopause, amenable to hormone manipulation, alternative treatment to chemotherapy in women with early breast cancer which is oestrogen receptor positive, prostate cancer amenable to hormone manipulation. Zoladex LA, prostate cancer amenable to hormone manipulation.

Dosage

Zoladex, adults, 1 depot injection subcutaneously in abdominal wall every 28 days for up to 6 months. Zoladex LA, 1 depot injection every 12 weeks into anterior wall of abdomen.

Special Care

Metabolic bone disease in women, males at risk of obstruction of the ureter or compression of the spinal cord - antiandrogens may be needed to prevent flare at start of treatment.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding. Non-hormonal contraception should be used.

Known Side Effects

Hypersensitivity, sweating, joint pains, headaches, numbness/tingling/'pins and needles' sensation, apoplexy of pituitary gland, loss of bone density, low or high blood pressure, hot flushes, lowered libido. Also, in women, breast swelling, mood swings, vaginal dryness. In men, breast swelling and tenderness.