Leuprolide
Lupron (leuprolide acetate) is a GnRH agonist used to treat conditions driven by sex hormones, including advanced prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and central precocious puberty. The medication works by initially stimulating, then desensitizing the pituitary gland, leading to decreased production of sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
Lupron is a hormone-suppressing injection used for hormone-related conditions such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203852
- Generic
- Lupron
- 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.
Lupron is used in adults for advanced prostate cancer, endometriosis (with or without bone pain), uterine fibroids, and in children for central precocious puberty. It may also be used for other hormone-sensitive conditions as determined by a healthcare provider.
Lupron is a GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonist that initially stimulates the pituitary gland, causing a temporary surge in LH and FSH. With continued use, it downregulates GnRH receptors, leading to decreased production of these hormones and subsequently reduced sex hormone levels.
Lupron is administered by injection (subcutaneous or intramuscular) on varying schedules depending on the formulation and condition. Common side effects include hot flashes, mood changes, injection site reactions, and decreased bone density with prolonged use. In prostate cancer patients, an initial tumor flare may occur in the first few weeks. It should not be used during pregnancy. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential 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