Zoladex (Goserelin)

Do's

• Receive Zoladex as an implant injected under the skin in your lower abdomen.
• Follow the exact injection schedule: 3.6mg every 4 weeks or 10.8mg every 12-13 weeks for best results.
• Expect a possible rise in hormone levels during the first few weeks before they decrease, which is normal.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you experience a temporary worsening of your symptoms.
• Note that regular use of Zoladex can stop menstrual periods for women.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions exactly on how often to receive injections and for how long.
• Mark your calendar to help you remember when to schedule your next injection.
• Tell your healthcare provider right away about any new or worsening symptoms, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Zoladex is not recommended for pregnant women.
• Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your periods continue after 2 months of treatment. Typically, the implant dissolves on its own. However, your healthcare provider may need to remove it in rare cases of severe side effects. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens while using Zoladex.

Don'ts

• Do not stop taking Zoladex without your healthcare provider's approval.
• Do not rub or massage the injection site.
• Do not drink alcohol as it may worsen some side effects of Zoladex.
• Do not smoke. Smoking may increase your risk of side effects from Zoladex.

Common Side Effects:

• Hot flashes (hot flushes)
• Headache
• Sweating
• Acne, scaly skin rash, or dandruff
• Mood changes
• Depression
• Decreased/increased libido
• Impotence (in men)
• Trouble passing urine
• Pain at the injection site

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Severe bleeding or injury at the injection site
• A pituitary tumor (very rare)
• Serious heart problems (rare)
• Blood clotting disorders (rare)
• Vision changes or eye symptoms (rare)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Zoladex,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, including allergies to LHRH or similar hormones.

Disclose your medical history, especially if you have:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Diabetes
• History of alcohol use or smoking
• Personal or family history of bone loss (osteoporosis)
• Heart conditions (heart attack, high cholesterol, etc.)
• Stroke
• Urinary blockage (men)
• Spinal cord problems (men)
• Mental health concerns (depression, etc.)

If you have diabetes, be aware that Zoladex may affect blood sugar control. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and inform your healthcare provider of any changes.

A heart rhythm condition can happen which leads to serious consequences. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any heart problems, a family history of certain heart issues, or are taking medications that may affect heart rhythm.

Low levels of potassium or magnesium can increase the risk of QT prolongation. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, especially QT prolongation.

Zoladex is contraindicated during pregnancy and should be used with reliable non-hormonal birth control.

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Zoladex due to potential risks to the infant.