Degarelix
Generic name: degarelix [ DEG-a-REL-ix ]
Brand name: Firmagon
Drug classes:Gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists, Hormones / antineoplastics
What is degarelix?
Degarelix is a man-made form of a protein that reduces the amount of certain hormones in the body, including testosterone.
Degarelix injection is used to treat prostate cancer. It works by decreasing the amount of testosterone in the body, which the tumor needs to grow.
It is not known if degarelix is safe or effective in children.
Warnings
Although this medicine is not for use by women, degarelix should not be used by a woman who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or who may become pregnant.
Before you receive degarelix, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, a personal or family history of "Long QT syndrome," congestive heart failure, or an electrolyte imbalance, such as low or high levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood.
Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially a heart rhythm medication.
Degarelix is usually given once every 28 days. Follow your doctor's instructions.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use degarelix if you are allergic to it.
To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
heart problems;
long QT syndrome (in you or a family member);
liver or kidney disease; or
an electrolyte imbalance, such as low or high levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in your blood.
Although degarelix is not for use by women, this medicine can harm an unborn baby or cause miscarriage if a woman is exposed to it during pregnancy. Degarelix should not be used by a woman who is pregnant.
This medicine may affect fertility (your ability to have children), whether you are a man or a woman.
Degarelix also should not be used by a woman who is breastfeeding a baby.
How is degarelix given?
Degarelix is injected under the skin around your stomach. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
On the day of your injection, avoid wearing a belt, tight waistband, or tight clothing around your stomach where the injection will be given.
Degarelix is usually given once every 28 days. Follow your doctor's instructions.
The first time you receive this medicine, you will be given two injections. At your monthly follow-up visits you will receive only one injection.
You will need frequent medical tests.
Degarelix can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who ...
