Lupron Long-Term Effects on Males
Lupron is a prescription medication used for many purposes, including the treatment of prostate cancer in men. Despite its effectiveness, Lupron poses a risk for side effects in some men associated with long-term use.
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Types of Common Side Effects for All Patients
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Side effects of Lupron that occur with long-term use in all patients include hot flashes, body pains, increased urination, weakness and chronic sinus congestion.
Types of Common Side Effects Unique to Males
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According to the FDA, around 7 percent of men who take Lupron experience a decrease in testicular size and a swelling of breast tissue, making the chest area resemble that of a woman. Approximately 4 percent of men suffer impotence related to long-term use of the drug.
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Risks
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Many men lose bone density after taking Lupron for over six months, putting them at risk for osteoporosis and an increased amount of bone fractures. Cardiovascular risks of Lupron that occur with long-term use in any patient include reduction of bloodflow to your heart, hypertension, blood clots, heart attacks and congestive heart failure.
Warning
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Infrequently, use of Lupron over an extended period of time in men results in compression of the spine, causing paralysis and even death.
Considerations
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If your prostate cancer is such that your ability to urinate is decreased, your doctor is not likely to prescribe Lupron for you as urination may become completely obstructed with its use. If you have a history of lesions or tumors on your spine, you are more susceptible to spinal cord decompression while taking Lupron.
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