A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Eligard is a prescription medication designed for the management of advanced prostate cancer. Acting as a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist, it works by reducing the levels of testosterone in the body, which is often required for prostate cancer cells to grow. Through its mechanism, Eligard slows down the growth of prostate cancer.
Before you buy Eligard, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about its potential side effects and affordability.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C59H84N16O12 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | N/A (administered via injection) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Leuprolide acetate |
Elimination half-life | Dependent on formulation; ~30 days for the 1-month depot, longer for 3-month and 6-month depot formulations |
Dosage (Strength) | Available in depot injections of 7.5 mg, 22.5 mg, 30 mg, 45 mg for 1-, 3-, 4-, and 6-month durations, respectively |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated |
Brands | Eligard |
Protein binding | Not applicable (peptide drug) |
PubChem CID | 441410 |
MedlinePlus | a692038 |
ChEBI | 64221 |
ATC code | L02AE02 |
DrugBank | DB00007 |
KEGG | D00989 |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous, intramuscular |
Eligard should only be administered by a healthcare professional. The injection is given subcutaneously, usually in the abdominal area. Before administration, the mixing of the leuprolide acetate with the diluent provided in the kit is necessary. The dosage and frequency of the injection depend on the specific Eligard formulation being used. Patients should continue their regular appointments and follow their doctor's instructions closely, including any adjustments to the treatment plan. It is crucial to discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare provider before starting Eligard.
Active Ingredient: Leuprolide acetate.
Patients with pre-existing urinary tract obstructions should be closely monitored due to the potential for worsening symptoms.
Those at risk for spinal cord compression should receive careful assessment and management to prevent serious complications.
Eligard may prolong the QT interval, posing a risk for patients with, or predisposed to, heart rhythm abnormalities.
Leuprolide acetate can increase the risk of developing or exacerbating diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Eligard medication can interact with other medications, which can affect how Eligard or the other medications work or increase the risk of serious side effects. It is crucial to inform the healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products being used before starting Eligard. Particular attention should be given to:
QT Prolonging Drugs: As Eligard may prolong the QT interval, combining it with other medications known to have this effect can increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Antiandrogens: The use of Eligard with other hormone therapies should be closely monitored for effectiveness and side effects.
Warfarin: Leuprolide acetate can increase the effects of warfarin, requiring closer monitoring of blood coagulation parameters.
While many patients tolerate Eligard well, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:
Severe side effects are less common but can include:
What is Eligard?
Eligard is a brand-name prescription medication used as a palliative treatment for advanced prostate cancer in adult males. It helps manage pain and other symptoms but does not cure cancer itself.
How is Eligard administered?
A healthcare professional gives Eligard a subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Based on the doctor's prescription, the injection strength varies (7.5 mg, 22.5 mg, 30 mg, or 45 mg).
What is the active ingredient in Eligard?
The active drug ingredient in Eligard is leuprolide acetate, which belongs to a group of medications called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. These medications decrease hormones that worsen prostate cancer.
Is there a generic version of Eligard?
No, Eligard is available only as a brand-name medication and has no generic form.
What are the side effects of Eligard?
Eligard can cause both mild and severe side effects. It's essential to discuss these with your doctor.
How effective is Eligard for prostate cancer?
Eligard helps manage symptoms but does not cure prostate cancer. Its effectiveness varies based on individual cases.
Can Eligard be used for other conditions?
Eligard is approved explicitly for advanced prostate cancer and is not recommended for other uses.
What is the cost of Eligard?
The cost of Eligard depends on factors such as dosage strength and insurance coverage.
How does Eligard work?
Eligard suppresses hormones that stimulate prostate cancer growth, helping to slow its progression.
Is Eligard available in generic form?
No, Eligard is only available as a brand-name medication.