Leuprolide is a hormone-blocking medicine most people get as a shot. Doctors prescribe it for prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and early (precocious) puberty. If your doctor suggested leuprolide, this page tells you the real, practical stuff — how you’ll get it, what to expect, and simple steps to stay safe.
Leuprolide comes as a depot injection that lasts from one month to six months, depending on the product. You usually don’t inject it yourself; a nurse or clinic will give the shot into muscle or under the skin. Before the first dose your provider will run basic checks — for example, a pregnancy test for people who can become pregnant and hormone or cancer markers for men. Expect a schedule: monthly, every 3 months, or every 6 months. Keep those appointments — missing doses can cause symptoms to return.
Hot flashes and sweaty nights are the most common complaints. Others include mood changes, low libido, fatigue, and temporary swelling at the injection site. With longer use there’s a risk of bone density loss, so your provider may order a DEXA scan if you’ll be on leuprolide for months. Men treated for prostate cancer can get a temporary testosterone “flare” in the first week; doctors often prevent this with a short course of another drug. Always tell your provider about new chest pain, sudden weakness, or big mood swings.
Leuprolide affects fertility while you’re taking it. In most cases fertility returns months after stopping, but if you might want children later, ask about fertility preservation before treatment starts. For people who can become pregnant, leuprolide can cause harm to a fetus — effective contraception is required and pregnancy tests are standard before starting treatment.
Drug interactions are not common, but always tell your doctor about all medicines, herbs, and supplements you take. Also mention if you have diabetes, heart disease, or osteoporosis — leuprolide can change blood sugar, cholesterol, and bone strength, and your care may need extra monitoring.
Cost and coverage vary. Many insurance plans cover leuprolide but may require prior authorization. If cost is a problem, ask your clinic pharmacist about manufacturer savings cards or patient assistance programs. Community clinics and specialty pharmacies can sometimes help with paperwork.
Practical tips: write down the injection date and the next appointment, track side effects in a simple notebook, and stay active with weight-bearing exercise to protect bones. Take calcium and vitamin D if your doctor recommends them. If hot flashes or mood issues become hard to handle, call your provider — there are ways to manage these symptoms.
Finally, ask questions. Good ones to bring: Why is leuprolide the best choice for me? How long will I need it? What should I watch for between visits? Who do I call after hours? Clear answers up front make treatment simpler and safer.
