GnRH analogues: They are modified versions of a naturally occurring hormone known as gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) which helps to control the menstrual cycle. When used continuously for periods of longer than 2 weeks, these drugs stop the production of oestrogen. This ‘starves’ the endometriosis of oestrogen, causing the deposits to become inactive and reduce. It is often recommended that a woman takes ‘add-back’ therapy or HRT to reduce or even prevent the side effects of these drugs.
- Leuprorelin (Prostap)
- Goserelin (Zoladex)
- Nafarelin (Synarel)
- Buserelin (Suprecur)
- Triptorelin (Decapeptyl)
Testosterone derivatives: Testosterone is a male hormone (androgen). These drugs are synthetic (scientifically created) androgens. As these drugs decrease the production of oestrogen and progesterone, this in turn decreases the stimulation of the endometriosis stopping it from growing further inside the body.
- Danazol contains a form of testosterone. It creates a menopause-like state. Most of the women who take Danazol stop having a menstrual cycle and many experience other side effects. Due to its many side effects, Danazol is now used only as a ‘second line’ treatment for endometriosis when other drug treatments have been tried without success.
- Gestrinone (Dimetriose) also contains a form of testosterone and its side effects are similar to Danazol – although reportedly not as severe.
We are grateful to www.endometriosis.org for their help with this information.
<< Previous |
