Goserelin implant is used in combination with radiation therapy and other medications to treat localized prostate cancer and is used alone to treat the symptoms associated with advanced prostate cancer. It is also used to treat advanced breast cancer in certain women. It is also used to manage endometriosis (a condition in which the type of tissue that lines the uterus [womb] grows in other areas of the body and causes pain, heavy or irregular menstruation [periods], and other symptoms) and to help with the treatment of abnormal bleeding of the uterus. Goserelin implant is in a class of medications called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. It works by decreasing the amount of certain hormones in the body.
Goserelin comes as an implant to be inserted with a syringe subcutaneously (under the skin) in your stomach area by a doctor or nurse in a medical office or clinic. An implant with 3.6 mg of goserelin is usually inserted every 4 weeks. An implant with 10.8 mg of goserelin is usually inserted every 12 weeks. The length of your treatment depends on the condition being treated and your response to the medication. Your doctor will determine how long you should use goserelin implant.
Goserelin may cause an increase in certain hormones in the first few weeks after insertion of the implant. Your doctor will monitor you carefully for any new or worsening symptoms during this time.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
If you miss an appointment to receive an implant of goserelin, you should call your healthcare provider right away to reschedule your appointment. The missed dose should be given within a few days.
headache
hot flashes (a sudden wave of mild or intense body heat)
sweating
sudden reddening of the face, neck, or upper chest
lack of energy
loss of appetite
breast pain or change in breast size in women
decreased sexual desire or ability
painful sexual intercourse
vaginal discharge, dryness, or itching
menstruation (periods)
swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
depression
nervousness
unable to control emotions and frequent mood changes
difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
pain, itching, swelling, or redness at the place where the implant was inserted
hives
rash
itching
difficulty breathing or swallowing
chest pain
pain in the arms, back, neck, or jaw
unusual weight gain
slow or difficult speech
dizziness or fainting
weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
bone pain
not able to move legs
painful or difficult urination
frequent urination
extreme thirst
weakness
blurred vision
dry mouth
nausea
vomiting
breath that smells fruity
decreased consciousness
Goserelin implant may cause a decrease in the density of your bones which can increase the chance of broken bones and fractures. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication and to find out what you can do to decrease these risks.
Goserelin implant may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about goserelin implant.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Revised - 09/15/2011
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.