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Treatment Options > Chemotherapy > OncoLink Rx

Goserelin acetate implant (Zoladex®)

Last Modified: February 5, 2007

Goserelin acetate implant
Other name: Zoladex^®

How it is given: Goserelin is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) monthly or every 3 months by a health care professional. It is usually given in combination with an antiandrogen such as bicalutamide or flutamide.

How it works: Goserelin lowers levels of testosterone produced by the testicles; lower testosterone levels shrink most prostate cancers or causes them to grow more slowly.

Side Effects and Precautions

At first, goserelin causes an increase in testosterone, a phenomenon known as ?flare,? which may make symptoms such as bone pain worse. Symptoms should improve after 2 or 3 weeks of goserelin treatment. If symptoms bother you during the first weeks of goserelin treatment, ask your doctor what medications you can take to relieve them.

The most common side effects of goserelin treatment result from decreased levels of testosterone?hot flashes, sexual dysfunction, and decreased erections.

• Sudden rushes of body heat causing reddening of the skin and sweating (hot flashes)
  Uncomfortable but not dangerous; may disturb sleep. What to do: Ask your doctor about medications that can be taken to relieve the discomfort of hot flashes.

• Nausea and Vomiting
  Nausea and vomiting are reported by some patients who receive goserelin, usually within the first few weeks of treatment.
  What to do: Ask your doctor about medications that can treat these adverse effects if they persist. Eating small amounts of food during the day, instead of three larger meals, may help to reduce nausea. Also, increasing fluid intake and eating bland foods may help if you experience diarrhea. Avoid eating sweet, fatty, salty, or spicy foods.

• Decreased sex drive (loss of libido) and inability to have an erection (impotence)
  These are common adverse effects when goserelin is taken in addition to antiandrogens such as bicalutamide or flutamide.
  What to do: If sexual desire decreases while taking goserelin after surgery, there are no treatments that can restore it to normal while goserelin is still being taken. However, there are a number of treatment approaches that can improve sexual functioning. Ask your doctor about them if you experience impotence while receiving goserelin.