Leuprolide (Lupron) is a man-made hormone injection prescribed for the treatment of prostate cancer, endometriosis, fibroids, and central precocious puberty. Side effects, drug interactions, warnings and precautions, and patient information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.
Endometriosis is the growth of cells similar to those that form the inside of the uterus, but in a location outside of the uterus. Endometriosis implants are most commonly found on the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, outer surfaces of the uterus or intestines, and on the surface lining of the pelvic cavity. They can also be found in the vagina, cervix, and bladder. Treatment of endometriosis can be with medication or surgery.
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that originate in the uterus and are usually round or semi-round in shape. The most common symptom of a uterine fibroid is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Other symptoms include pressure, pelvic pain, pressure on the bladder, or pain during a bowel movement. Treatment options vary from surgery to medication.
Prostate cancer is an uncontrolled (malignant) growth of cells in the prostate gland. Prostate cancer is the second
leading cause of death of males in the U.S. Prostate cancer is often initially
suspected because of an abnormal PSA blood test or a hard nodule (lump) felt on
the prostate gland during a routine rectal examination.
Benign uterine growths are tissue enlargements of the female womb (uterus). Three types of benign uterine growths are uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, and uterine polyps. Symptoms include: abdominal pressure, pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse. Diagnosis and treatment of benign uterine growths depends upon the type of growth.
The time when boys and girls begin the process of sexual maturation is called puberty. During this time, both sexes undergo a series of biological changes that include a rapid increase in height, bone growth, weight increase, the growth of pubic hair, breast development and the onset of menstruation in girls, and testicle, penis, and muscle enlargement in boys.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is considered to be a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMDD has also been referred to as late luteal phase dysphoric disorder. The cause of PMDD is unknown. Some of the common symptoms of PMDD (not an inclusive list) include: mood swings, bloating, fatigue, headache, irritability, headache, breast tenderness, acne, hot flashes and more. Treatment for PMDD is with medication to treat the symptoms of PMDD.
Teenagers recognize that they are developmentally between child and adult. Teen health prevention includes maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, preventing injuries and screening annually for potential health conditions that could adversely affect teenage health.