CDHB

Goserelin

go-ser-el-in

What does it do?

Goserelin reduces the amount of testosterone and oestrogen (male and female sex hormones) in your body. It is used to treat many conditions such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids and breast cancer. It is also used in fertility treatments and transgender healthcare.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have heart problems, or osteoporosis (weak bones).
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Goserelin is given as an injection under the skin on your stomach by a health professional.

What if you forget a dose?

If you miss an appointment for your injection, contact your health professional as soon as possible.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

Important information continues on next page.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing

Tell your doctor immediately

Low mood

Tell your doctor

Hot flushing, sweating

Less interest in sex, trouble getting or keeping an erection

Vaginal dryness, unexpected vaginal bleeding

Sore or enlarged breasts

Joint, muscle or bone aches and pains, swollen feet or legs

Headache, dizziness, tiredness or weakness

Irritation or pain at injection site

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • If you usually have periods, they will stop while you are using goserelin, but you might get some vaginal bleeding when you first start. Periods usually start again once you stop goserelin.
  • People being treated for cancer can sometimes get a ‘tumour flare’ when they first start goserelin. This can cause new or worsening symptoms such as bone pain. Tell your doctor if this happens to you.
  • Goserelin can weaken your bones. You may need tests to check for this.