Goserelin Acetate
(Generic Name) Other Names: Zoladex®
Goserelin acetate is used to treat cancer. This drug is given by subcutaneous injection (SQ), just under the skin in the abdomen.
Possible Side Effects
- mild nausea
- hot flashes
- decreased interest in sex
- bone pain. This usually occurs during the first week of treatment.
- tiredness
- weakness
- pain or rash at the injection site
- headache
- decreased appetite. This side effect is rare.
- In men, this drug may cause impotence or decreased erection, breast tissue enlargement, and breast tenderness.
- In women, this drug may cause vaginal dryness and painful intercourse, slight vaginal spotting or breakthrough bleeding, and breast tenderness.
- This drug may have harmful effects on the unborn child, so effective methods of birth control should be used during your cancer treatment.
Treating Side Effects
- Ask your doctor or nurse about medication that is available to help prevent or lessen nausea and vomiting.
- Do not put anything on your rash unless your doctor or nurse says you may. Keep the area around the rash clean and dry.
- Use effective methods of birth control during your cancer treatment.
- Vaginal lubricants can be used to lessen vaginal dryness, itching, and pain during sexual relations.
Food and Drug Interactions
There are no known interactions of goserelin acetate and any food. This drug may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist all the medications that you are currently taking.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor or nurse immediately if you have the following symptom:
- uncontrolled nausea that prevents you from eating or drinking
Notify your doctor or nurse as soon as possible if you have any of the following symptoms:
- irregular vaginal bleeding
- nausea unrelieved by prescribed medication
- increase in bone pain
- headache unrelieved by prescribed medication
- sexual problems
- persistent loss of appetite or loss of five pounds or more in one week
- extreme tiredness that interferes with normal activities
- rash that is bothersome
- pain at the injection site unrelieved by prescribed medicine
- trouble sleeping