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The prostate gland is an organ that is located at the base or outlet (neck) of the urinary bladder. (See the diagram that follows.) The gland surrounds the first part of the urethra. The urethra is the passage through which urine drains from the bladder to exit from the penis. One function of the prostate gland is to help control urination by pressing directly against the part of the urethra that it surrounds. The main function of the prostate gland is to produce some of the substances that are found in normal semen, such as minerals and sugar. Semen is the fluid that transports the sperm to assist with reproduction. A man can manage quite well, however, without his prostate gland. (See the section on surgical treatment for prostate cancer.)
In a young man, the normal prostate gland is the size of a walnut (<30g). During normal aging, however, the gland usually grows larger. This hormone-related enlargement with aging is called b...30g).
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Hot flashes (flushing), decreased sexual interest/ability, shrinking of the testicles, and breast tenderness/swelling may occur as a result of lowered testosterone levels. Dizziness and headache may also occur with this drug. If any of these effects bother you, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: bone/joint/unusual pain, easily broken bones, swelling of the ankles/feet, unusual weakness, inability to move (paralysis), increased thirst, unusual change in the amount of urine.
Get medical help right away if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: chest discomfort/pain, irregular heartbeat, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech.
Rarely, a serious problem with your pituitary gland (pituitary apoplexy) may occur, usually in the first hour to 2 weeks after your first dose of this medication. Get medical help right away if any of these serious side effects occur: sudden severe headache, mental/mood changes (such as confusion), vision changes, vomiting, fainting.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using triptorelin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other LHRH-type drugs (such as leuprolide); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, personal or family history of weak/broken bones (osteoporosis), diabetes, heart disease (such as heart attack), stroke, family history of sudden cardiac death.
This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Females: Triptorelin is not usually used by women. It must not be used by pregnant women because it may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Breast-feeding is also not recommended during triptorelin treatment. Consult your doctor for more details and before breast-feeding, and to discuss reliable forms of birth control.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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