Degarelix Acetate
Degarelix acetate is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It works by blocking GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, which reduces the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), ultimately decreasing testosterone levels. This medication is administered as a subcutaneous injection and is typically used when androgen deprivation therapy is indicated.
Degarelix acetate is a GnRH antagonist used to treat advanced prostate cancer by reducing testosterone levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 835863
- Generic
- Degarelix Acetate
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Degarelix acetate is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced prostate cancer who require androgen deprivation therapy. It may be used as initial therapy, in combination with other agents, or as part of a multimodal treatment approach.
Degarelix acts as a competitive antagonist at GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland. By blocking these receptors, it rapidly suppresses the release of LH and FSH, which leads to decreased stimulation of testosterone production by the testes. This results in significant reduction of serum testosterone levels within days of administration.
Degarelix is administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically with an initial dose followed by maintenance doses. Common side effects may include injection site reactions, hot flashes, weight gain, and liver enzyme changes. Regular monitoring of serum testosterone and PSA levels is recommended. Patients should be counseled about potential cardiovascular risks and the importance of continued monitoring throughout treatment.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy