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ZOLADEX LA 10.8 MG IMPLANT - Patient leaflet, side effects, dosage

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Sources: Original (products.mhra.gov.uk)

Patient leaflet - ZOLADEX LA 10.8 MG IMPLANT

What is in this leaflet:

  • 1. What Zoladex LA is and what it is used for

  • 2. What you need to know before you use Zoladex LA

  • 3. How to use Zoladex LA

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store Zoladex LA

  • 6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. what zoladex la is and what it is used for

Zoladex LA contains a medicine called goserelin. This belongs to a group of medicines called ‘LHRH analogues’.

Zoladex LA is used to treat prostate cancer. It works by reducing the amount of ‘testosterone’ (a hormone) that is produced by your body.

Zoladex LA is a long-acting form of Zoladex and it is given every 12 weeks.

2. what you need to know before you use zoladex la

Do not use Zoladex LA:

  • if you are allergic to goserelin or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6).
  • if you are a woman.

Do not have Zoladex LA if any of the above apply to you. If you are not sure, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse before having Zoladex LA.

Warnings and precautions

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse before using Zoladex LA:

  • if you have problems passing urine (water) or problems with your back.
  • if you have diabetes.
  • if you have high blood pressure.
  • if you have any condition that affects the strength of your bones, especially if you are a heavy drinker, a smoker, have a family history of osteoporosis (a condition that affects the strength of your bones) or take anticonvulsants (medicines for epilepsy or fits) or corticosteroids (steroids).
  • if you have any heart or blood vessel conditions, including heart rhythm problems (arrhythmia), or are being treated with medicines for these conditions. The risk of heart rhythm problems may be increased when using Zoladex LA.

There have been reports of depression in patients taking Zoladex which may be severe.

If you are taking Zoladex and develop depressed mood, inform your doctor.

Medicines of this type can cause a reduction in bone calcium (thinning of bones).

If you go into hospital, tell the medical staff that you are having Zoladex LA.

Children

Zoladex LA should not be given to children.

Other medicines and Zoladex LA Tell your doctor, pharmacist or nurse if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. This includes medicines that you buy without a prescription and herbal medicines.

Zoladex LA might interfere with some medicines used to treat heart rhythm problems (e.g. quinidine, procainamide, amiodarone and sotalol) or might increase the risk of heart rhythm problems when used with some other drugs (e.g. methadone (used for pain relief and part of drug addiction detoxification), moxifloxacin (an antibiotic), antipsychotics used for serious mental illnesses).

Driving and using machines Zoladex LA is not likely to affect you being able to drive or use any tools or machines.

3. how to use zoladex la

  • The Zoladex LA will be injected under the skin on your stomach every 12 weeks.

This will be done by your doctor or nurse.

  • It is important that you keep having Zoladex LA treatment, even if you are feeling well.
  • Keep having this treatment until your doctor decides that it is time for you to stop.

Your next appointment

  • You should be given a Zoladex LA injection every 12 weeks.
  • Always remind the doctor or nurse to set up an appointment for your next injection.
  • If you are given an appointment for your next injection which is earlier or later than 12 weeks from your last injection, tell your doctor or nurse.
  • If it has been more than 12 weeks since your last injection, contact your doctor or nurse so that you can receive your injection as soon as possible.

4. possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Allergic reactions:

These are rare. The symptoms can include sudden onset of:

  • Rash, itching or hives on the skin.
  • Swelling of the face, lips or tongue or other parts of the body.
  • Shortness of breath, wheezing or trouble breathing.

If this happens to you, see a doctor straight away.

Injection site injury (including damage to blood vessels in the abdomen) has been reported following injection of Zoladex LA. In very rare cases this has caused severe bleeding.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain.
  • Abdominal distension.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Dizziness.
  • Low blood pressure and/or any altered levels of consciousness.

Other possible side effects: Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)

  • Hot flushes and sweating. Occasionally these side effects may continue for some time (possibly months) after stopping Zoladex.
  • A reduced sex drive and impotence.

Common (may affect up to

1 in 10 people)

  • Pain in your lower back or problems passing urine. If this happens, talk to your doctor.
  • Bone pain at the beginning of treatment. If this happens, talk to your doctor.
  • Thinning of your bones.
  • Rises in blood sugar levels.
  • Tingling in your fingers or toes.
  • Skin rashes.
  • Weight gain.
  • Pain, bruising, bleeding, redness or swelling where Zoladex LA is injected.
  • Reduced heart function or heart attack.
  • Changes in blood pressure.
  • Swelling and tenderness of your breasts.
  • Changes in your mood (including depression).

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

  • Pain in the joints.

Very rare (may affect up to

1 in 10,000 people)

  • Psychiatric problems called psychotic disorders which may include hallucinations (seeing, feeling or hearing things that are not there), disordered thoughts and personality changes. This is very rare.
  • The development of a tumour of the pituitary gland in your head or, if you already have a tumour in your pituitary gland, Zoladex LA may make the tumour bleed or collapse. These effects are very rare. Pituitary tumours can cause severe headaches, feeling or being sick, loss of eyesight and becoming unconscious.
  • Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data) Hair loss.
  • Changes in your blood.
  • Liver problems.
  • A blood clot in your lungs causing chest pain or shortness of breath.
  • Inflammation of the lungs. The symptoms may be like pneumonia (such as feeling short of breath and coughing).
  • Changes in ECG (QT prolongation). Do not be concerned by this list of possible side effects. You may not get any of them.

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5. how to store zoladex la

  • Your doctor may give you a prescription so that you can get your medicine from the pharmacy and give it to your doctor when you see him or her again.
  • Store in the original container and do not break the seal.
  • Do not store above 25°C.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
  • Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
  • If you notice any sign of discolouration or deterioration of your medicine, please tell your pharmacist immediately.

6. contents of the pack and other information

What Zoladex LA contains

The active substance is goserelin.

Zoladex LA contains goserelin acetate equivalent to 10.8 mg peptide base in a long acting sustained release implant.

The other ingredient is lactide/ glycolide copolymer which is an inactive substance.

What Zoladex LA looks like and contents of the pack

Zoladex LA is a very small pellet in a pre-filled syringe as a single dose SafeSystem syringe applicator with a protective sleeve, ready to be used by the doctor or nurse.

Zoladex LA is produced in packs of one implant (injection).

Product Licence Holder and Manufacturer

Procured from within the EU by the Product Licence holder Orifarm A/S, Energivej 15, 5260 Odense S, Denmark

Repacked by Orifarm Supply s.r.o., Palouky 1366, 253 01 Hostivice, Czech Republic

Manufactured by AstraZeneca UK Ltd., Silk Road Business Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 2NA, UK

Zoladex LA 10.8 mg implant PL 46927/0178

Leaflet revision date: 07/11/2019

| POM |

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Sources: Original (products.mhra.gov.uk)

The drug is classified in the ATC tree:

L ANTINEOPLASTIC AND IMMUNOMODULATING AGENTS

L02 ENDOCRINE THERAPY ANTINEOPLASTIC AND IMMUNOMODULATING AGENTS

L02A HORMONES AND RELATED AGENTS

L02AE Gonadotropin releasing hormone analogues, endocrine therapy drugs

L02AE03 goserelin

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ZOLADEX LA 10.8 MG implant used for?

ZOLADEX LA is primarily used to treat hormone-sensitive conditions such as prostate cancer and endometriosis. It helps reduce the production of certain hormones in the body.

How does ZOLADEX LA work?

ZOLADEX LA contains goserelin, which is a type of hormone therapy that works by reducing testosterone levels in men and estrogen levels in women, helping to shrink tumors or manage symptoms related to hormone-sensitive diseases.

How is ZOLADEX LA administered?

ZOLADEX LA is administered as an implant that is injected under the skin, often in the abdominal area. A healthcare professional will perform this procedure.

How often do I need to receive ZOLADEX LA implants?

Typically, ZOLADEX LA implants are administered every 12 weeks or as directed by your doctor, depending on your specific condition.

What should I do if I miss a dose of ZOLADEX LA?

If you miss an appointment for your ZOLADEX LA injection, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to administer it yourself.

Are there any common side effects of using ZOLADEX LA?

Common side effects may include hot flashes, decreased libido, weight gain, or mood changes. Always discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider.

Can ZOLADEX LA affect my fertility?

Yes, ZOLADEX LA can affect fertility due to its impact on hormone levels. If you are concerned about fertility, discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment.

Is it safe to use ZOLADEX LA while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, ZOLADEX LA is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant. Speak with your doctor for alternatives.

Can I drink alcohol while using ZOLADEX LA?

While moderate alcohol consumption may not directly interfere with ZOLADEX LA, it's best to consult your doctor regarding alcohol use during treatment.

What should I tell my doctor before starting ZOLADEX LA?

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, any allergies you have, and any pre-existing health conditions to avoid interactions and complications.

Are there any specific foods or supplements I should avoid while on ZOLADEX LA?

There are no specific foods that need to be avoided; however, always consult your healthcare provider about dietary restrictions and supplement use during treatment.

Can ZOLADEX LA interact with other medications?

Yes, ZOLADEX LA can interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting treatment.

How long will I need to stay on ZOLADEX LA?

The duration of treatment with ZOLADEX LA varies based on your condition and response to therapy. Your doctor will determine the appropriate length of treatment.

What should I do if I experience severe side effects from ZOLADEX LA?

If you experience severe side effects such as persistent headaches or vision changes, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance.

Will I need regular check-ups while on ZOLADEX LA?

Yes, regular check-ups are important while using ZOLADEX LA. Your doctor will monitor your response to treatment and check for any side effects.

Can men and women both use ZOLADEX LA?

Yes, both men and women can use ZOLADEX LA; however, it is typically prescribed for specific conditions related to hormone sensitivity in each sex.

What happens if the implant comes out accidentally?

If the implant dislodges or comes out accidentally, contact your healthcare provider immediately for instructions on what steps to take next.

Is it normal to feel emotional changes while on ZOLADEX LA?

Yes, some patients may experience emotional changes such as mood swings or depression due to hormonal changes caused by the medication. Discuss these feelings with your doctor.

Are there any alternative treatments to ZOLADEX LA?

There are alternative treatments available depending on the condition being treated. Discuss with your healthcare provider about other options that may be suitable for you.

Where can I find more information about ZOLADEX LA outside of the PIL?

For more detailed information about ZOLADEX LA, consider reputable medical websites or speak directly with your healthcare provider for tailored advice based on your situation.