Cleveland Clinic logo
Search

Leuprolide Suspension for Injection (Endometriosis)

What is this medication?

LEUPROLIDE (loo PROE lide) treats endometriosis. This is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. It may also be used to treat uterine fibroids, growths of tissue in the uterus. It works by decreasing the amount of estrogen your body makes, which reduces heavy bleeding and pain.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lupron Depot

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Frequently drink alcohol
  • Mental health conditions
  • Osteoporosis, weak bones
  • Seizures
  • Tobacco use
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to leuprolide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected into a muscle. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your care team to get one.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Advertisement

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

  • Cisapride
  • Dronedarone
  • Ketoconazole
  • Levoketoconazole
  • Pimozide
  • Thioridazine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. During the first weeks of therapy, your symptoms may get worse, then should improve as you continue treatment.

You may experience a menstrual cycle or spotting during the first month of therapy. If this continues, contact your care team.

Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects. A barrier contraceptive, such as a condom or diaphragm, is recommended while taking this medication. Talk to your care team about reliable forms of contraception.

This medication may cause infertility. It is usually temporary. Talk to your care team if you are concerned about your fertility.

Using this medication for a long time may weaken your bones. The risk of bone fractures may be increased. Talk to your care team about your bone health.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • New or worsening seizures
  • Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
  • Worsening mood, feelings of depression

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Acne
  • Change in sex drive or performance
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Hot flashes
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Weight gain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

Advertisement

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic icon
Health Essentials logo
Subscription icon

Better health starts here

Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more.

Copyright ©2026 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

Ad