nafarelin, Synarel (cont.)

Pharmacy Author:

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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Absorption of nafarelin is not affected by a cold or runny nose. If nasal decongestant sprays are needed, they should be taken at least 2 hours before or after using nafarelin.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Nasal decongestant sprays (for example, Afrin) may interfere with the absorption of nafarelin. If nasal decongestant sprays are needed, they should be used at least 2 hours before or after using nafarelin.

PREGNANCY: Nafarelin should not be used in pregnancy or in women who may become pregnant while receiving the medication because it might harm the fetus. Safe use of nafarelin in pregnancy has not been established. Pregnancy must be excluded before starting treatment with this medication, and a non-hormonal method of contraception should be used during treatment.

NURSING MOTHERS: Nafarelin should not be used by nursing mothers because its safety has not been evaluated.

SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects of nafarelin are mostly related to the low estrogen state. Side effects include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, headaches, mood changes, and decreased interest in sex. Some patients may experience acne, muscle pain, reduced breast size, and irritation of the tissue inside the nose. These side effects should disappear after stopping the medication.

The low estrogen state and the temporary menopause induced by nafarelin can cause a small amount of bone thinning, which may only partially recover after stopping treatment. Patients should discuss this possibility with their doctors and alert their doctors to conditions that they may have that could increase the risk of bone thinning. These conditions include chronic tobacco use, excessive use of alcohol, family history of osteoporosis, and taking other medications that can cause bone thinning (such as anticonvulsants or corticosteroids).

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

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