# Degarelix

> Degarelix is a GnRH receptor antagonist rather than an agonist, providing immediate blockade of pituitary GnRH receptors without the initial testosterone surge seen with agonists like leuprolide or triptorelin. It is approved for advanced prostate cancer, particularly when rapid androgen suppression is clinically important. Its antagonist mechanism makes it useful in situations where a flare in disease activity would be risky, such as impending spinal cord compression.

- URL: https://www.lifeconverted.com/peptides/degarelix
- Also known as: Firmagon
- Primary category: Other & Clinical
- Effectiveness rank: #7 in Other & Clinical
- Evidence level: Well studied
- Route: Subcutaneous (Given as a deep subcutaneous injection into the abdominal area; not intramuscular or intravenous.)
- Dose range: 80-240 mg
- Dose tiers: low 80 mg; moderate 160 mg; high 240 mg
- Half-life: Approximately 28 to 53 days (terminal), reflecting slow release from the depot formed at the injection site
- Timing: As directed by your clinician
- Cycle: Continuous monthly maintenance per oncology protocol on, Discontinued per prescriber decision off
- Storage: Store at room temperature below 25°C. Reconstitute immediately before use; do not refrigerate after mixing.

## Mechanism of action

Degarelix competitively binds and blocks pituitary GnRH receptors, producing an immediate reduction in LH, FSH, and downstream testosterone without an initial stimulatory phase, in contrast to the flare-then-suppress pattern of GnRH agonists.

## Reported benefits

- Rapid, castrate-level testosterone suppression
- Avoids the initial tumor flare associated with GnRH agonists
- Useful when urgent symptom control is needed
- Established option for advanced prostate cancer

## Reported side effects

- Injection site pain, erythema, and swelling (more common than with agonists)
- Hot flashes
- Weight gain
- Liver enzyme elevation
- QT interval prolongation risk

## Common protocols

- Advanced prostate cancer requiring rapid testosterone suppression
- Monthly maintenance androgen deprivation therapy

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