Firmagon Injection

Firmagon Injection is a medication used to treat patients with advanced prostate cancer who have not responded to other treatments. It is a sterile injection containing Degarelix, a GnRH receptor antagonist that works by blocking the production of hormones that stimulate the growth of cancer cells.

Composition:

Firmagon Injection is a sterile injection containing Degarelix, a GnRH receptor antagonist.

Indications:

Firmagon Injection is indicated for the treatment of:

• Advanced prostate cancer in patients who have not responded to other treatments
• Prostate cancer in patients with a rising PSA level despite previous hormone therapy

Mechanism of Action:

Degarelix works by:

1. Binding to the GnRH receptor on the surface of pituitary cells
2. Blocking the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
3. Inhibiting the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
4. Reducing the production of testosterone and estrogen, which can slow down the growth of cancer cells

Dosage and Administration:

The recommended dosage of Firmagon Injection is:

• 80mg administered as an intramuscular injection every 28 days
• The dose should be adjusted based on the patient’s response to treatment and tolerability

Side Effects:

Common side effects of Firmagon Injection include:

1. Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
2. Fatigue
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Headache
5. Diarrhea
6. Muscle pain
7. Joint pain

Serious side effects can include:

1. Hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis)
2. Infusion-related reactions (chest tightness, difficulty breathing)
3. Cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke)
4. Gastrointestinal perforation

Contraindications:

Firmagon Injection is contraindicated in patients with:

1. Severe hypersensitivity reactions to Degarelix or any component of the formulation
2. Severe liver disease
3. Severe kidney disease

Precautions:

1. Patients with a history of cardiac disease should be closely monitored while receiving Firmagon Injection.
2. Patients with a history of liver disease should be closely monitored while receiving Firmagon Injection.

Patient Counseling:

• Patients should be counseled on the importance of taking their medication as directed and not missing doses.
• Patients should be instructed to report any signs of injection site reactions, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Patients should be advised to report any changes in their appetite or weight loss.

Storage and Handling:

• Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C) and protected from light.
• Do not freeze or expose to direct sunlight.
• Use within 24 months of opening.

Please note that the dosage and administration information is based on the recommended dosage and may vary depending on individual patient needs and circumstances.

As with any medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking Firmagon Injection, especially if you have a history of medical conditions, are taking other medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.