Goserelin or Zoladex is an implant that is used to treat prostate cancer, endometriosis, that is inflammation of the lining of the uterus, and mestastic breast cancer in women who have not gone through menopause.
Goserelin or Zoladex suppresses estrogen production. It's a synthetic analog of one of the body's hormones - leutinizing hormone releasing hormone or LHRH. In response to its presence the body stops producing estrogen, and because some conditions depend upon estrogen, the condition is impaired. The level of estrogen is reduce to a post menopausal level, and estrogen sensitive tumours don't have enough estrogen to grow.
Goserelin or Zoladex's side effects are similar to the symptoms of menopause - hot flashes, vaginal dryness, headache, mood swings, sweating, breast changes, depression.
Goserelin or Zoladex should not be given to women who are pregnant or have vaginal bleed of an unknown cause. Because Goserelin or Zoladex may take several weeks to show improvement, and in fact when beginning the therapy symptoms may worsen, patience is needed.
Goserelin or Zoladex is usually given in combination with other drugs to control the condition.
Eur J Cancer 1992;28A(4/5):810
Onkologie 1991;14(1):22
The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.