What is Firmagon?
Firmagon is a human-made version of a protein that decreases the levels of certain hormones present in the body, like testosterone. The injection of Firmagon is employed to fight prostate cancer. It is a method of reducing the level of testosterone in our bodies. It is this testosterone that the tumour requires to grow. It isn't clear whether Firmagon is suitable or safe for children.
Warnings
While Firmagon is not intended for use by females, it should never be taken by a woman who is nursing or pregnant. Before taking Firmagon, inform your physician whether you suffer from kidney or liver disease as well as a family or personal background for "long QT syndrome," congestive heart failure, or electrolyte imbalances such as excessive or low levels of magnesium or potassium within your blood.
Discuss with your doctor the other medications you are taking, particularly a medicine for your heartbeat. The medication is typically given every 28 days. Follow the doctor's advice. To ensure that this medication is helping with your health, it is possible that your blood needs to be checked frequently. Don't miss any follow-up appointments with your physician.
Before taking this medication
Firmgon is not recommended if you are allergic to degarelix.
To ensure the safety of Firmagon, consult your physician. If you are suffering from:
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Heart-related problems;
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The long QT disorder (in the case of you as well as a relative);
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Kidney or liver disease or
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An imbalance in electrolytes, like high or low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your blood.
While Firmagon is not recommended for women to use, degarelix could cause harm to an unborn baby or cause miscarriage if a pregnant woman has been exposed to it during her pregnancy. Degarelix is not to be taken by pregnant women.
This medication may impact fertility (your ability to bear kids), whether you are a male or female.
It is also not recommended to be used by a mother who is nursing a baby.
How to take Firmagon?
Firmgon is injected beneath the skin of the stomach. The healthcare professional will administer the injection. When you are getting your injection, do not wear a belt, tightly fitting waistbands, or clothing around your stomach, where the injection will take place. Firmagon is typically prescribed each time for 28 days. Follow your doctor's prescriptions.
When you first receive this medication, you will receive two injections. On your follow-up visits every month, you will receive just one injection. You'll require regular medical tests. The effects of Firmagon could influence the results of specific tests for medical purposes. Inform any physician who treats you that you're using this degarelix.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Prostate Cancer:
Initial dosage: 240 mg given in two subcutaneous injections of each 120 mg, with a dose of 40 mg/mL.
Maintenance Dose: 80 mg taken in one subcutaneous injection at 20 mg/mL once every 28 days.
Comments: Take the first dose of maintenance 28 days following the initial dose. Treatment for prostate cancers that are advanced
What happens If I miss the dose?
Contact your doctor for advice. If you do not make an appointment to receive the injection of Firmagon,
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Avoid scratching or rubbing the skin area where the injection was administered.
Degarelix is a substance that can be absorbed into body fluids (urine, faeces, and even vomit). At least 48 hours following the time you received the dose, do not allow the body fluids of your body to touch your hands or any other surfaces. Carers must wear rubber gloves while cleaning a person's bodily fluids, removing toxic trash or laundry, or changing diapers. Clean hands prior to and after taking off gloves. Cleanse linens and clothing that have been soiled separately from the rest of the laundry.
Side effects of Firmagon
Get immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergy reaction, Firmagon: hives, breathing problems, swelling of your lips, face, or tongue
Contact your doctor immediately. If you are suffering from:
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Heartbeats that are fast or rapid, and your chest is fluttering with excitement;
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Breathlessness;
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Abrupt dizziness that is sudden (like the possibility of passing out) or
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Extreme headache with blurred vision and the pounding of your neck or ear.
Common Firmagon adverse effects can include:
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Hot flashes;
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Weight gain
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Abnormal tests for liver function;
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Redness, pain, swelling, itching, or a lump of hard tissue at the site of injection
This isn't an exhaustive list of all the side effects. Other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Firmagon may cause serious heart conditions. Your risk may be increased if you utilise other medicines to treat asthma, infections, heart conditions, high blood pressure, depression, mental diseases, malaria, cancer, or HIV.
Other drugs can interfere with degarelix, which includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your physician the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
