Degarelix

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Antagonist	Firmagon®	Cancer-related

Degarelix - What is it for

Degarelix is a medicine that is used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It works by reducing the level of testosterone the body produces. Testosterone may contribute to tumor growth.

Degarelix - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Degarelix cause?

Hot flushes
Pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, especially if it is your first injection
This is usually mild and may subside in 3 days.
Weight gain
Tiredness
Increased blood pressure
Muscle pain; back and joint pain
Chills
Decreased sex drive

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Allergic reaction e.g. rashes, swelling, breathing difficulty
Severe bone, muscle or joint pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes or passing tea-colored urine
Chest pain or palpitation, or breathing difficulty
Fever or pain when urinating

Before taking Degarelix , what precautions must I follow?

Ensure that the site of injection is free from any pressure from objects such as belts, waistbands, clothing etc.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any other medical conditions e.g. heart problems, high blood pressure.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Degarelix ?

Degarelix - Dosage and How to Use

How should Degarelix be used?

It is a subcutaneous injection given around the waist area where the fat tissues are. Two injections of 120 mg each are given for the first time (240 mg in total) with subsequent single injections of 80 mg given every 28 days.