Why is this medication prescribed?

Fensolvi is a prescription medication used to treat advanced prostate cancer in adult men. It belongs to a class of drugs known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, which work by decreasing the production of testosterone in the body. Since prostate cancer growth is often fueled by testosterone, reducing its levels can slow down or inhibit tumor growth.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Fensolvi should typically be used:

• Administration: Fensolvi is administered by a healthcare professional as a subcutaneous injection, typically into the lower abdomen. It’s usually given once every 12 weeks.
• Dosage: The dosage of Fensolvi may vary depending on individual patient factors and the severity of the prostate cancer. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Follow-up injections: It’s important to adhere to the injection schedule prescribed by your healthcare provider. Missing doses or delaying injections may affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and other relevant parameters may be necessary during Fensolvi treatment to assess its effectiveness and monitor for any adverse effects.
• Adverse effects: Like any medication, Fensolvi may cause side effects. Common side effects may include hot flashes, fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and injection site reactions. Be sure to discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider.
• Duration of treatment: Treatment with Fensolvi may continue for as long as it is effective in controlling the prostate cancer. Your healthcare provider will monitor your condition and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using Fensolvi and to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about the medication or its administration.

Other uses for this medicine

Fensolvi (leuprolide acetate) is primarily used for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. However, it may also be prescribed for other medical conditions, including:

• Endometriosis: Fensolvi may be used to manage endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and other symptoms.
• Uterine fibroids: Fensolvi may be used to treat uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths of the uterus that can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pressure on the bladder or bowel.
• Central precocious puberty: Fensolvi may be used to treat central precocious puberty in children, a condition where puberty starts at an abnormally early age.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when taking Fensolvi include:

• Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, especially if you have a history of allergic reactions to medications or other substances.
• Provide a comprehensive medical history, including any other medical conditions you have, such as heart disease, diabetes, or bone disorders.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Some medications may interact with Fensolvi, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Fensolvi should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may harm the developing fetus or nursing infant. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Fensolvi with your healthcare provider.
• Fensolvi may cause a decrease in bone mineral density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring your bone health and may prescribe calcium and vitamin D supplements or other medications to help protect your bones.
• Your healthcare provider will monitor your condition closely while you are taking Fensolvi, including regular assessments of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and other relevant parameters. Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for follow-up care.
• Fensolvi is administered as a subcutaneous injection, which may cause injection site reactions such as pain, swelling, or redness. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any persistent or severe injection site reactions.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when taking Fensolvi and to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about the medication or its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Fensolvi. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is generally recommended for overall health and well-being. If you have any dietary concerns or questions, discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Fensolvi, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible for guidance. It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosing schedule to maintain the effectiveness of the treatment. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fensolvi (leuprolide acetate) may cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Fensolvi include:

• Hot flashes: Feelings of warmth, flushing, or sweating, often accompanied by a rapid heartbeat.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic.
• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
• Decreased libido: Reduced interest in sexual activity.
• Injection site reactions: Pain, swelling, redness, or irritation at the site of injection.
• Testicular atrophy: Shrinkage of the testicles due to decreased testosterone production.
• Breast tenderness or enlargement: Swelling, tenderness, or enlargement of the breast tissue.
• Mood changes: Mood swings, irritability, or depression.
• Bone thinning: Decreased bone density, which may increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Muscle weakness: Decreased muscle strength or stamina.
• Decreased urinary flow: Difficulty urinating or decreased urine output.
• Headache: Pain or discomfort in the head, often described as a dull ache or throbbing sensation.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to the stomach, sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
• Weight gain: An increase in body weight, often due to fluid retention or changes in metabolism.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

It’s essential to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they may be able to provide recommendations to help manage or alleviate them. In some cases, your healthcare provider may adjust your treatment plan or prescribe additional medications to help mitigate side effects. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Fensolvi:

• Storage: Store Fensolvi (leuprolide acetate) as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Typically, it should be stored at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F or 20°C and 25°C) away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Fensolvi injections according to local regulations or guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility on how to properly dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe adverse reactions after using Fensolvi, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, fainting, or seizures, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room for assistance. Be sure to bring the Fensolvi packaging or container with you to provide information about the medication.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Fensolvi. Regular monitoring of your condition and response to treatment is essential to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
• Laboratory tests: Your healthcare provider may perform regular blood tests, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, to monitor your response to Fensolvi treatment and assess for any potential side effects.
• Counseling and support: Consider joining support groups or seeking counseling services if you need emotional support or assistance coping with the challenges of prostate cancer treatment.
• Lifestyle modifications: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration, to support your overall well-being during prostate cancer treatment.
• Medication interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as some substances may interact with Fensolvi, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Travel considerations: If you plan to travel, ensure you have an adequate supply of Fensolvi medication and any necessary supplies for administering injections. Keep your medication in its original packaging and carry it with you in your carry-on luggage when flying.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Fensolvi or its use.