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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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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
TRIPTORELIN 1 MONTH (3.75 MG) - INJECTION
(trip-toe-REL-in)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Trelstar Depot
USES: Triptorelin is used to treat advanced prostate cancer in men. It is not a cure. Most types of prostate cancer need the male hormone testosterone to grow and spread. Triptorelin works by reducing the amount of testosterone that the body makes. This effect helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells and helps relieve symptoms such as painful/difficult urination. This medication is similar to a natural substance made by the body (luteinizing hormone releasing hormone-LHRH). Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given as an injection into the muscle of your buttocks by a health care professional, usually once every month (4 weeks) or as directed by your doctor.
Follow the dosing schedule carefully to get the most benefit from this drug. To help you remember, mark your calendar to keep track of your next dose.
During the first few weeks of treatment, your testosterone level will actually increase before it decreases. This is a normal response by your body to this drug. This effect may result in new or worsening symptoms for the first few weeks. If you have prostate cancer that has spread to the spine or that has caused urinary blockage, you may require closer monitoring by your doctor, especially when you first start treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects: bone pain, numbness/tingling/weakness of the arms/legs, blood in the urine, painful/difficult urination.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
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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