Side Effects of Lupron

Lupron is a prescription drug that's used primarily to treat men with advanced prostate cancer. It can also be used to help slow sexual development in children who begin puberty at a very early age. Because it lowers estrogen output in women, it can also be used to treat conditions of the uterus such as fibroids and endometriosis. Lupron is typically injected by a doctor or other health professional, but in some cases patients may be taught how to inject the medication themselves.

Side Effects in Men

• Rarely, men taking Lupron may experience diminished sexual desire, impotence, breast swelling or tenderness and shrinking of the testicles. Talk to your doctor about these side effects if you experience them.

Side Effects in Girls

• Girls who experience early puberty begin having menstrual periods at an early age, but taking Lupron regularly can stop periods from occurring. Girls who are taking Lupron and still continue having a monthly period for 2 months should have a parent or guardian contact her doctor.

At the Injection Site

• Lupron patients may experience mild pain, bruising or burning at the injection site. This is normal and no cause for concern.

Pituitary Apoplexy

• In extremely rare cases, patients taking Lupron may develop a condition called pituitary apoplexy. Side effects of the condition include severe mood changes, vision changes, a severe and sudden headache, fainting and severe vomiting.

Other Serious Side Effects

• Other side effects of Lupron that might indicate a problem has developed include chest pain, blood in the urine, bone pain, swelling in the lungs, weakness on one side of the body and dizziness and lightheadedness. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these side effects.

Non-Serious Side Effects

• Patients taking Lupron may experience difficulty sleeping, night sweats, increased sweating, hot flashes, fatigue, acne, muscle aches, vaginal dryness and feet or ankle swelling. None of these side effects is a cause for concern.