Goserelin
Goserelin is a GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) analogue used primarily in the treatment of hormone-sensitive cancers such as prostate and breast cancer, as well as conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids. The medication works by initially stimulating, then subsequently suppressing the pituitary gland's production of gonadotropins, leading to decreased production of sex hormones. This creates a reversible state of hormone deprivation that helps slow or halt the growth of hormone-dependent tissues.
Goserelin is a hormone-suppressing therapy that treats hormone-sensitive cancers and conditions by inhibiting pituitary gonadotropin secretion through GnRH pathway modulation.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L02AE03
- RxNorm
- 50610
- Generic
- Goserelin
- Class
- atc-l02
- Brands
- Zoladex
- 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.
Goserelin is primarily used for advanced prostate cancer, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in premenopausal women, endometriosis (to reduce lesion size and pain), and uterine fibroids. It is also occasionally used in assisted reproduction protocols to suppress ovarian function before controlled stimulation.
As a synthetic GnRH analogue, goserelin initially causes a surge in LH and FSH release from the pituitary gland. With continuous administration, GnRH receptors become desensitized, leading to suppressed gonadotropin secretion and subsequently reduced production of testosterone (in males) and estrogen (in females). This reversible hormonal suppression is the therapeutic mechanism.
Goserelin is typically administered as a subcutaneous implant every 4 weeks or every 12 weeks depending on the indication. Initial treatment may cause a temporary worsening of symptoms known as 'tumor flare' in cancer patients. Common side effects include hot flashes, decreased libido, and injection site reactions. Treatment causes reversible hypogonadism; fertility may be affected. Patients should not discontinue use without medical supervision.
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