Leuprolide Acetate Injection

Leuprolide Acetate Injection is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists or GnRH analogs. It is mainly used to reduce the production of certain hormones in the body, primarily testosterone in men and estrogen in women.

Leuprolide acetate acts by temporarily shutting down the pituitary gland's release of gonadotropins, leading to decreased production of sex hormones by the testes or ovaries. This results in a reduction in testosterone in males and estrogen in females.

Administered as an injection (under the skin or into a muscle). Can be daily, monthly, or even every few months depending on the formulation and the condition being treated.

Common side effects often relate to the drop in hormone levels and can include: Hot flashes Sweating Decreased libido Erectile dysfunction (in men) Vaginal dryness (in women) Mood changes Headaches Long-term use may lead to bone thinning (osteoporosis).

Leuprolide (Lupron) is commonly used in IVF cycles to suppress natural ovulation. It allows fertility specialists to control the release of eggs, optimizing timing for oocyte retrieval, and increasing IVF success rates. By suppressing gonadotropin secretion, it prevents premature LH surges, ensuring maximum mature egg yield during assisted reproductive treatments.

Leuprolide acetate can be given as a daily subcutaneous injection or monthly depot formulations. In IVF, treatment usually lasts 2–4 weeks during ovarian stimulation. Cancer and endometriosis patients may receive leuprolide for months to years, depending on treatment response and medical advice.

Leuprolide is FDA-approved for: Prostate cancer (as androgen deprivation therapy) Breast cancer (in premenopausal women, off-label) Uterine fibroids and endometriosis Precocious puberty in children

Leuprolide temporarily suppresses reproductive hormones; fertility typically returns upon completion of treatment. It does not cause permanent infertility. It is used in IVF specifically to optimize fertility.

Pregnancy is not recommended during leuprolide therapy. Use non-hormonal contraception, as ovulation is temporarily suppressed. Inform your doctor if you become pregnant while on Lupron.

What Are the Side Effects of Leuprolide Injection?

Yes, Lupron (leuprolide acetate) can cause acne or worsen oily skin due to hormonal changes. Usually, acne is mild and improves as your body adjusts.

Leuprolide rarely increases seizure risk, especially in those with a preexisting seizure disorder or on certain medications (like SSRIs or antipsychotics). Discuss your medical history with your doctor.

Mild, temporary hair thinning may occur, but Lupron is less likely than some other cancer treatments to cause significant hair loss.

Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and night sweats, are common side effects related to hormonal suppression. Practicing sleep hygiene, using a fan, and consulting your doctor can help.

Very rarely, Lupron is associated with an increased risk of stroke or serious cardiovascular, metabolic, or thromboembolic events, especially in patients prone to such risks. Monitor regularly if you have pre-existing conditions.

Avoid pregnancy. Avoid other hormone therapies unless prescribed. Minimize alcohol, stop smoking, and limit high-fat/processed foods. Avoid grapefruit/grapefruit juice unless cleared by your doctor. Check with your doctor before taking over-the-counter herbs or supplements.

The cost of leuprolide acetate for IVF varies by location, insurance, dosage, and brand. Out-of-pocket cost per cycle averages $200–$800+, not including other IVF medications or procedures.

Hydrate well; eat a balanced, calcium-rich diet. Exercise regularly to reduce joint pain and improve mood. Take prescribed supplements or medications for bone health. Report any severe symptoms or unusual reactions to your doctor.

Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and lean protein. Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Minimize sodium, caffeine, sugar, and highly processed foods. Talk to your doctor about calcium and vitamin D supplements to counteract bone loss risk.

Leuprolide starts lowering hormone levels within days of starting treatment, and clinical improvement is often noticed within 1–2 weeks for IVF and within weeks to months for cancer or endometriosis.

Pharmacy-grade, authentic leuprolide (Lupron, Eligard, Leuprorelin) Strict cold-chain storage and delivery Single-use, sterile prefilled syringes Trusted by fertility clinics and cancer centers worldwide Bulk and prescription pricing available