Leuprolide
Eligard is a brand-name injectable medication containing leuprolide acetate, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist. It is primarily used in the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer. The medication works by initially stimulating, then down-regulating GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, which ultimately reduces testosterone production to very low levels.
Eligard is a GnRH agonist injection used to treat advanced prostate cancer by reducing testosterone levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 352619
- Generic
- Eligard
- Class
- brand-name
- 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.
Eligard is indicated for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It is used when androgen deprivation therapy is appropriate.
As a GnRH agonist, Eligard initially stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, but continued administration causes receptor down-regulation, leading to decreased testosterone production (chemical castration).
Eligard is administered as a subcutaneous injection by a healthcare professional at various intervals (monthly, quarterly, or longer-acting formulations). It may cause an initial testosterone surge ('flare') within the first few weeks of treatment. Common side effects include hot flashes, fatigue, injection site reactions, and decreased libido. Regular monitoring of testosterone levels and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) may be required during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy