Zoladex LA 10.8 mg contains goserelin, a synthetic hormone used to manage hormone-sensitive conditions such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, and endometriosis. It belongs to a class of medicines known as LHRH agonists, which work by controlling the body’s production of certain sex hormones. Zoladex LA is administered as a long-acting subcutaneous implant, providing continuous treatment over a 12-week period, making it convenient for patients needing long-term hormonal control.

Mechanism of Action

Goserelin is a luteinising hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist. It initially stimulates the pituitary gland, causing a temporary surge in sex hormone levels – testosterone in men and estrogen in women. However, with continued administration, goserelin desensitizes the pituitary gland, leading to a significant decrease in the production of these hormones.

In men, this results in medical castration, lowering testosterone to levels that reduce the stimulation of prostate cancer cells. In women, it reduces estrogen levels, which helps manage hormone-driven conditions like breast cancer or endometriosis. This reversible suppression mimics the effect of surgical hormone removal without permanent intervention.

Uses

Zoladex LA is prescribed in several hormone-dependent conditions:

• Prostate cancer: As part of hormone therapy to slow the growth of cancer cells

• Breast cancer: In premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive tumors

• Endometriosis: To relieve pelvic pain and shrink endometrial tissue

• Uterine fibroids: Occasionally used to reduce fibroid size and bleeding before surgery

• Assisted reproduction: To control hormonal cycles in fertility treatments

  Adverse Effects

  Common Side Effects

  • Hot flashes or excessive sweating

  • Loss of libido or reduced sexual function

  • Mood changes such as low mood or irritability

  • Bone thinning or decreased bone density with long-term use

  • Injection site discomfort including redness, bruising, or pain