Overview
Zoladex is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the management of prostate cancer. It is specifically indicated for use in combination with flutamide for individuals with locally confined carcinoma of the prostate, and as a palliative treatment (for relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for advanced prostate cancer. Zoladex is also known by its drug name, goserelin.

Zoladex belongs to a class of drugs called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. It works by lowering the amount of testosterone in the body, which helps slow the growth of prostate cancer cells that rely on this hormone to grow.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Zoladex is typically administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) implant every 12 weeks. The implant is placed into the anterior abdominal wall (lower belly area), just below the navel. The drug should be given exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Zoladex include hot flashes, sexual dysfunction, decreased erections, and lower urinary tract symptoms.

Rare but serious side effects may include tumor flare (temporary worsening of cancer symptoms), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), diabetes, increased risk of heart problems such as heart attack, sudden cardiac death, and stroke, severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, and prolonged QT interval (a type of heart rhythm problem). Injection site injuries and allergic reactions may also occur.

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Label: Zoladex (Goserelin Implant) — DailyMed