Lupron Depot

Leuprolide acetate (Lupron Depot) is a synthetic nonapeptide analog of naturally occurring gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Developed by Abbott Laboratories (and currently marketed by AbbVie), the 6-month depot formulation (45 mg) is specifically indicated for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer. It functions as a GnRH receptor agonist; initial administration causes a transient increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), but continuous administration leads to downregulation of GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland. This results in the suppression of LH and FSH secretion, ultimately reducing serum testosterone to castrate levels (≤50 ng/dL). The 6-month formulation, approved by the FDA in 2011, provides sustained therapeutic levels via intramuscular injection administered twice yearly, offering improved convenience for patients requiring long-term androgen deprivation therapy.

Brand names

Lupron DepotLupron Depot-6 Month

Other names

leuprolide acetate 6-month depotleuprolide acetate 45 mgleuprolide acetate