Overview
Firmagon is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It is used as a form of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to reduce testosterone levels, which prostate cancer cells need to grow. Firmagon is also known by its drug name, degarelix.

Firmagon is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the GnRH receptor in the pituitary gland, quickly reducing the production of testosterone without causing an initial hormone surge, which can happen with some other forms of ADT.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Firmagon is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Treatment begins with a starting dose given as two injections, followed by a maintenance dose given as a single injection every 28 days. The drug should be given exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Firmagon include injection site reactions (such as pain, discoloration, swelling, or firmness at the injection site), hot flushes, and increased levels of liver enzymes including transaminases and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT).

Rare but serious side effects may include hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis, urticaria (hives), and angioedema (swelling under the skin). Firmagon may also cause QT interval prolongation (a heart rhythm disorder) and can harm an unborn baby. The drug may impair fertility.

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Label: Firmagon — Degarelix Kit — DailyMed