Eligard

Eligard is a brand-name formulation of leuprolide acetate, a long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist used in hormone therapy. The medication is provided as a subcutaneous depot that releases leuprolide gradually over time, with dosing intervals ranging from monthly to every six months, depending on the specific preparation.

Leuprolide acts on GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland. With initial administration, it transiently increases luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, causing a temporary rise in testosterone. Continued exposure leads to receptor desensitization and downregulation, resulting in suppression of gonadotropin release and a marked decrease in circulating sex hormones (testosterone in men, estrogen in women). This pharmacologic effect is termed medical castration.

Eligard is indicated for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer as part of androgen deprivation therapy. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments as directed by a clinician. In all cases, treatment requires monitoring of hormone levels and the patient’s clinical response.

Common adverse effects include hot flashes, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, and injection-site reactions. Long-term therapy can impact bone density and metabolic health; patients should be monitored for osteoporosis risk and cardiovascular health. Contraindications include pregnancy; use during breastfeeding is generally avoided.

See also Leuprolide acetate and GnRH agonists.