Is Firmagon (degarelix) the same as Lupron?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Oct 28, 2024.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

No, Firmagon (degarelix) is not the same as Lupron but they are both hormone deprivation treatments that may be used for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

Firmagon is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist and Lupron is a GnRH agonist. Even though they appear to have opposing mechanisms of action, they both achieve the same result, which is a significant lowering of testosterone levels. Firmagon works by binding to pituitary GnRH receptors, reducing the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and subsequently testosterone. Lupron works by stimulating GnRH receptors so much that it desensitizes the receptor and down-regulates the secretion of LH and FSH and subsequently testosterone. Because it works in this way, infusions of Lupron initially produce a transient increase in testosterone, but continued stimulation results in a profound decrease in circulating testosterone.

Put simply, degarelix takes a more direct path to testosterone suppression than Lupron. Degarelix is an antagonist that immediately stops testosterone production, preventing a testosterone surge and eliminating the need for any additional therapies. Lupron is an agonist that desensitizes the GnRH receptor but causes an initial surge in testosterone and may require additional medication.

By day 3, Firmagon causes a 94% reduction in testosterone levels, whereas Lupron causes a 65% INCREASE in testosterone levels by day 3. But by 28 days, both Firmagon and Lupron achieve a 98% reduction in testosterone levels.

Research has also indicated that, on the whole, degarelix improves health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with prostate cancer more than what Lupron does. Patients taking degarelix were less likely to experience a deterioration in their mental health HRQoL, such as anxiety or depression, and had an overall improved level of health, compared with those taking Lupron. Lupron seemed to have a more favorable impact on bodily pain and insomnia.

Are Lupron Depot and Eligard the same drug?

Lupron Depot and Eligard are brand name medicines that both contain the active ingredient leuprolide acetate. Both Lupron Depot and Eligard are prescribed to treat the symptoms of advanced prostate cancer. Lupron Depot is also approved to treat endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or central precocious puberty (CPP) in children (early puberty). Continue reading

Can you get pregnant on Lupron Depot?

Yes, you may still become pregnant if you are using Lupron Depot. Lupron Depot is not a method of birth control. Even though you may not have a period, unprotected intercourse could result in pregnancy. You should use a reliable non-hormonal birth control such as condoms, a diaphragm with contraceptive jelly, or a copper IUD to prevent pregnancy. Lupron Depot can cause harm to an unborn child. Contact your doctor right away if you think you are pregnant. Continue reading

Does Lupron Depot need to be refrigerated?

Before reconstitution, Lupron Depot for treatment of prostate cancer can be stored in its original container at room temperature (77°F [25°C]), with a range between 59°F to 86°F [15°C to 30°C]). Once Lupron Depot is reconstituted, inject the suspension immediately. Discard if not used within two hours, because Lupron Depot does not contain a preservative. Continue reading

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