Trelstar (Triptorelin Pamoate)

What is Trelstar?

Trelstar is a synthetic decapeptide agonist similar to the naturally occurring luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH). However, Trelstar works with greater potency than LHRH.

What is Trelstar used for?

Trelstar is used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer in men. Though it does not provide a cure, this drug inhibits the growth of cancer cells and lessens certain symptoms such as painful urination etc.

How does Trelstar work?

Trelstar over-stimulates the production of luteinizing hormones such as testosterone in our body. This overstimulation forces the body to stop producing these hormones for a while, thereby lowering the levels of testosterone in the body. This slows down the growth of cancer cells in the prostate and helps to relieve certain symptoms of prostate cancer.

How to use Trelstar

Trelstar should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Trelstar is usually injected into a muscle, preferably by a health care professional, once a month. Do not self inject till you learn to do so properly.

Since this drug increases testosterone production in the beginning, your condition may actually worsen initially. This is a natural response of the body to the treatment. Hence do not stop taking the injection.

Trelstar warnings and precautions

Trelstar is not administered to patients who are allergic to it.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to any other drug or if you have any of the following conditions: diabetes, obstruction in bladder or urinary problems, history of heart attack or stroke, high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol, cancer that has spread to your spine or if you smoke. There may be a dosage adjustment in such cases.

You may be kept under close monitoring if your prostate cancer has caused urinary blockage or has spread to your spinal cord.

Trelstar is not meant for women, especially pregnant women as the drug may cause serious birth defects.

What do I do if I have missed a Trelstar dose?

If you have missed a Trelstar dose, contact your doctor for appointment or further advice.

What do I do if I have taken a Trelstar overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Trelstar, seek medical attention immediately.

Trelstar interactions

Some drugs may interact with Trelstar. Hence it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines/ vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking, before using this drug.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Trelstar side effects

Side effects from Trelstar include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat; hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also, contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following serious side effects: painful or difficult urination, blood in the urine, burning sensation during urination, loss of movement of any part of body, muscle weakness especially in legs and feet, numbness, pain in bones, or symptoms of flu.

Headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, back pain, pain and swelling in legs, impotence, hot flashes, insomnia are some common and less serious side effects of Trelstar.