Drug Name:Leuprolide
Drug Class:Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist
Mechanism of Action:
  • Binds to GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, leading to decreased secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
  • Results in decreased testosterone and estrogen levels in men and women, respectively
Use:
  • Prostate cancer
  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Precocious puberty
  • Infertility (off-label)
Side Effects:
  • Hot flashes
  • Decreased libido
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Injection site reactions
  • Bone loss (with long-term use)
Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to leuprolide or GnRH
  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
Specialty:
  • Oncology
  • Reproductive endocrinology
  • Pediatrics