Decapeptyl Depot 3.75 mg

Manufacturer: FERRING

Pharmaceutical name: Triptorelin

Pack: 1 pre-filled syringe (with suspension agent)

Decapeptyl Depot functions as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH agonist). By providing continuous stimulation to the pituitary gland, Decapeptyl Depot reduces the secretion of the gonadotropins luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary. Similar to other GnRH agonists, Decapeptyl Depot can be utilized in the treatment of hormone-sensitive cancers such as prostate cancer or breast cancer, precocious puberty, estrogen-dependent issues (including endometriosis and uterine fibroids), as well as in assisted reproductive technology.

 

Decapeptyl Depot is indicated for men with advanced prostate cancer, specifically during the treatment phase prior to using the extended release version. Its effects are notably more beneficial in patients previously undergoing other hormonal therapies. It is also used in women undergoing treatment for infertility, combined with other hormone therapies (gonadotropins) for in vitro fertilization, culminating in embryo transfer. Decapeptyl Depot is a kind of hormonal therapy employed for advanced prostate cancer.

 

Prostate Cancer: Many prostate cancers rely on testosterone, a hormone produced by the testes and adrenal glands, for growth. The release of testosterone from the testes is triggered by luteinizing hormone, which is secreted by the pituitary gland located in the brain. Triptorelin curtails the production of luteinizing hormone, ultimately resulting in decreased testosterone levels. This reduction may lead to the shrinkage or slowed progression of cancer.

 

A man using a daily dosage of Decapeptyl Depot may initially see heightened blood levels of LH and FSH, resulting in an uptick in testosterone levels. Ongoing therapy, however, lowers the levels of LH and FSH, subsequently decreasing testosterone levels throughout treatment. Concurrently, a rise in initial transient acid phosphatase can be observed. Treatment typically leads to marked improvements in both functional and objective assessments. Early treatment might also manifest increased clinical symptoms (particularly bone pain), although these occurrences are infrequent and typically short-lived. Monitoring is essential during the first two weeks of treatment, especially for patients at risk of urinary obstruction or spinal nerve compression due to vertebral metastases. Testosterone levels should be routinely assessed, ensuring they do not exceed 1 mg/ml. The response to treatment is evaluated using bone scintigraphy and prostate examinations, augmented by ultrasound or CT scans.

 

Female fertility: The ovarian response to gonadotropins in conjunction with Decapeptyl Depot can vary not only between patients but also across different cycles for the same patient. Increased caution is recommended for patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Ovarian induction is advised only under medical supervision, including regular clinical and biological assessments, such as plasma estrogen levels and ultrasound monitoring. Possible adverse effects of the medication include those typical of active drugs and may vary in severity among individuals.

 

The most frequently observed side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

 

Among men, common side effects are hot flashes, impotence, reduced libido, and, less frequently, gynecomastia and testicular atrophy. Women may experience hot flashes, bleeding or spotting, vaginal dryness or dyspareunia, in addition to reversible trabecular bone loss.

 

Decapeptyl Depot is available in dosages of 0.1 mg and 3.75 mg. When administered to prevent premature luteinizing hormone surges in female patients, the recommended dosage is 0.1 mg per day. Conversely, the dosage for treating prostate cancer in men or endometriosis in women is 3.75 mg every 28 days. Individual patient factors must be considered in depth to determine the precise dosage required.