Degarelix Injection

What is this medication?

DEGARELIX (deg a REL ix) treats prostate cancer. It works by decreasing levels of the hormone testosterone in the body. This prevents prostate cancer cells from spreading or growing. It belongs to a group of medications called GnRH blockers.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Degarelix, Firmagon

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

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

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood
• Osteoporosis, weak bones
• An unusual or allergic reaction to degarelix, mannitol, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• If you or your partner are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected under the skin. It is usually given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting. It may also be given at home.

If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give it. Use exactly as directed. 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 pharmacist or 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 get this medication at the hospital or clinic: It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

If you give yourself this medication at home: 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. Call your care team with questions.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

• Cisapride
• Dronedarone
• Pimozide
• Thioridazine

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Other medications that cause heart rhythm changes

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?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication. You may need blood work while taking this medication.

Do not rub or scratch injection site. There may be a lump at the injection site, or it may be red or sore for a few days after your dose.

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

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 or angioedema—skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble swallowing or breathing
• Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing

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

• Hot flashes
• Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
• 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.

This medication is usually given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

In rare cases, this medication may be given at home. If you are using this medication at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medication. 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.

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.