Lupron® (Leuprolide)
What is Lupron?
Lupron, also called Leuprolide, is a medicine that changes hormone signals in the body.
In pediatric endocrinology, it is often used to treat:
- Central precocious puberty (CPP) — puberty that starts too early
- Some hormone-related conditions
Lupron helps pause early puberty so children have more time to grow and develop at a normal pace.
How Does Lupron Work?
Lupron works by lowering certain hormone levels in the body. This can help:
- Slow or stop early puberty changes
- Slow rapid growth and bone aging
- Help improve adult height potential
How Is Lupron Given?
Lupron is given as an:
- Injection (shot) into a muscle or under the skin
Depending on the prescription, the shot may be given:
- Every month
- Every 3 months
- Every 6 months
Your child’s endocrinology team will explain the schedule.
What Should I Expect After Starting Lupron?
During the first few weeks, hormone levels may briefly rise before they go down.
Because of this, your child may temporarily have:
- More mood changes
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Breast tenderness
- Acne
- Puberty symptoms that seem stronger at first
This usually improves after the medicine starts working.
Common Side Effects
Many children do well on Lupron.
Possible side effects include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given
- Headache
- Mood changes
- Hot flashes
- Acne
- Mild weight changes
Serious Side Effects — Call Your Provider
Call your child’s healthcare provider if your child has:
- Severe pain or swelling after the injection
- Trouble walking
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes
- Seizures
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or trouble breathing
Important Tips
- Keep all follow-up appointments.
- Your child may need blood tests, X-rays, or growth checks.
- Puberty changes should slow down after treatment begins.
- Do not miss injection appointments.
When to Call the Healthcare Provider
Call your provider if:
- Puberty changes continue or worsen
- Your child misses a dose or appointment
- Your child has severe mood changes or side effects
- You have questions about treatment
Storage
Lupron injections are usually stored and given by the healthcare team. If you are storing medicine at home:
- Follow the instructions from your pharmacy
- Keep out of reach of children
Questions?
If you have questions about Lupron or your child’s treatment plan, contact Endo For Kids.
