Leuprolide
Also known as: Lupron, Eligard, Leuprorelin
Key Facts: Leuprolide
- Category
- Hormonal
- FDA Status
- FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- FDA Approved - Multiple indications
- Administration
- Intramuscular or subcutaneous depot injection
- Typical Dose
- Variable - depends on formulation
- Frequency
- Daily, monthly, or every 3-6 months
- Evidence Level
- FDA Approved
- Duration
- Months to years depending on indication
What to Expect
A GnRH agonist that suppresses testosterone and estrogen production. FDA approved for prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and precocious puberty.
Mechanism of Action
Leuprolide initially stimulates then suppresses gonadotropin release through continuous GnRH receptor stimulation. This leads to testosterone/estrogen suppression after initial flare. Creates reversible medical castration effect.
Research Summary
Extensive clinical use since 1985. Gold standard for androgen deprivation therapy in prostate cancer. Studies show significant benefit in hormone-dependent conditions. Long-acting depot formulations available.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
Variable - depends on formulation
1 mg daily to 45 mg every 6 months
Daily, monthly, or every 3-6 months
GnRH agonist for prostate cancer, endometriosis, precocious puberty. Multiple formulations available.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
FDA-approved dosing
Doses from Studies
7.5mg monthly depot
22.5mg 3-month depot
45mg 6-month depot
Duration
Months to years depending on indication
Administration
Intramuscular or subcutaneous depot injection
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Morning or as directed
Follow recommended protocol
Food Recommendation
With or without food
Why This Timing?
Timing may vary based on individual response and goals. Consistency is generally more important than specific timing.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Hot flashes (very common)
- ●Injection site reactions
- ●Headache
- ●Fatigue
- ●Depression and mood changes
- ●Bone thinning (long-term)
- ●Tumor flare reaction
- ●Cardiovascular risks
- ●FDA approved (Lupron)
References
Related Peptides
Peptides commonly compared with Leuprolide or used in similar applications.
Oxytocin
FDAA naturally occurring peptide hormone crucial for social bonding, childbirth, and lactation. Being studied for autism, anxiety, and social disorders.
HormonalGonadorelin
FDAA synthetic version of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Used diagnostically and therapeutically for various reproductive and hormonal conditions.
HormonalDesmopressin
FDAA synthetic analog of vasopressin (ADH) used for diabetes insipidus, bedwetting, and bleeding disorders. Does not cause vasoconstriction like natural vasopressin.
HormonalOctreotide
FDAA synthetic somatostatin analog that inhibits multiple hormones. Used for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and various GI conditions.
HormonalLanreotide
FDAA long-acting somatostatin analog similar to octreotide. FDA approved for acromegaly and gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
HormonalPasireotide
FDAA somatostatin analog with broader receptor binding than octreotide. Specifically effective for Cushing's disease due to SST5 activity.
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Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.