Lupron - A Drug for Endometriosis: Pros and Cons

Lupron is a hormone that is used to treat endometriosis and works by reducing estrogen levels in the female. The drug acts on the female body in two ways, the first is the drug stimulates the ovaries to produce more estradiol, the most potent of three estrogens manufactured by the female body. The second way in which Lupron works is by directing the ovaries to make less estrogen, which results in the female experiencing menopause-like side effects.

Lupron is used to treat severe endometriosis and can also be given before fertility treatments for a woman that is trying to conceive. In males, the drug is used to treat advanced prostate cancer, which is fueled by male estrogen production. Some of the side effects associated with Lupron can include: hot flashes, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, joint pain, depression, loss of libido, edema, hirsutism, weight gain, and breast pain and tenderness.

Lupron a drug for endometriosis pros and cons is something a woman must think about when approaching the topic of treatment. While the drug is not a cure for endometriosis, it can drastically reduce the amount of pain a woman must endure due to the disease. One of the best effects of Lupron is that 63% of women with mild endometriosis that used the drug were still symptom-free within 5 years. When trying to conceive and considering using Lupron for treating endometriosis, a woman should always follow the advice of a medical professional.

The drug is not a contraceptive and it is possible for a woman to get pregnant even when using the medication to treat endometriosis. One of the cons of using Lupron for treating endometriosis is that it can cause serious birth defects if a woman were to become pregnant while on the medication. Other side effects can include hot flashes, headaches, back or neck pain, irregular bleeding, vaginal itching and discharge, loss of bowel and bladder control and much more.

Lupron a drug for endometriosis pros and cons is something to consider for all women experiencing the disease. It is highly important that prior to using the medication that a woman receives a definitive diagnosis from a medical professional. By following the advice and recommendations of a licensed medical doctor a woman can successfully treat and manage the symptoms of endometriosis and have a chance of preserving her fertility.