Triptorelin is used for the treatment of breast and prostate cancer.
How should I take or use this medication?
Triptorelin is injected into the muscle.
What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?
Inform your healthcare professional if:
You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
You have any other medical conditions.
You are going to receive any vaccination or surgery, including dental surgery.
You have any plans to start a family in the future.
Triptorelin may have an anti-fertility effect, which could be irreversible. You should discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before starting treatment.
You should not breastfeed during treatment.
You should not become pregnant during treatment. You should use an effective birth control method during treatment.
If you have a partner who could become pregnant, you should use an effective birth control method during treatment.
What are some common side effects of this medication?
Side Effect
Management
Hot flushes (sudden sweating and feeling of warmth)
Wearing light clothing and staying in a cool environment may reduce these symptoms.
Inform your doctor if these symptoms affect you significantly.
Muscle aches and/or joint pain
Mild pain can be relieved by taking Paracetamol. Inform your doctor if the pain does not get better.
Taking regular warm baths may help.
Loss of or reduced sexual desire, breast swelling or soreness
These are temporary and may go away after you have stopped treatment with Triptorelin.
Inform your doctor if these symptoms bother you.
Mild pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
You may place a cool compress over the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day for relief.
Inform your doctor if the symptoms do not go away.
Bone loss and fractures
Maintain sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake.
Your doctor will monitor your bone density and prescribe medications to strengthen your bones when required.
Mood changes
This may occur on rare occasions.
Inform your doctor if you experience changes in your mood.
Symptoms of drug allergy including one or more of the following:
Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
Difficulty in breathing
Itchy skin rashes over your whole body
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and go to the A&E department immediately.
What else should I know about this medication?
Tips to help manage your condition while you are on Triptorelin.
Exercise
Light exercise is recommended as it helps to improve mobility, balance, and even emotional well-being. Avoid strenuous exercise, and rest when you are feeling tired.
Adequate hydration
Maintain adequate hydration with 2 to 3 litres of fluids per day unless you have been informed by your doctor to limit how much fluids you can drink. This will decrease your chances of getting constipation and prevent dehydration.
Medical and dental treatment
If you need to go to the hospital for any reason other than cancer, always inform the doctors and nurses that you are receiving anti-cancer treatment.
Talk to your cancer doctor if you think you need dental treatment. Always inform your dentist that you are receiving anti-cancer treatment.
Seek support if you feel overwhelmed
It is normal to feel fearful or worried about your condition. Do not be afraid to talk about your concerns with your healthcare team or loved ones.
There may be resources and support available to help you.
Disclaimer
Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side-effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side-effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (NHG Health, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
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