Goserelin.

Generic and proprietary names
- Goserelin.

- Zoladex.

- Zoladex LA.

Action
- Continued administration results in pituitary desensitisation and the inhibition of gonadotrophin release.

Classification
- Drugs affecting gonadotrophins.

- Hormone antagonists.

Indications
- Cancer of the prostate.

- Early and advanced cancer of the breast.

- Endometriosis.

- Thinning of the endometrium before uterine surgery.

- Pituitary down-regulation prior to assisted conception.

Contraindications
- Pregnancy.

- Unexplained vaginal bleeding.

- Use for longer than six months or repeated use.

Cautions
- Polycystic ovary disease.

- Metabolic bone disease.

Common side-effects
- Menopause-like symptoms.

- Decrease in bone density.

- Headache.

- Hypersensitivity.

- Sexual dysfunction.

Rare side-effects
- Palpitations.

- Hypertension.

- Change in breast size.

- Musculoskeletal problems.

- Visual disturbance.

- Weight change.

- Mood change.

- Ovarian cysts.

- Paraesthesia.

- Changes in scalp or body hair.

- Oedema of the face and extremities.

Administration
- Subcutaneous implant injection.

- Subcutaneous long-acting implant injection.

- Normal site for injections is the anterior abdominal wall.

Nursing considerations
- Pregnancy should be excluded before administration of this medication, therefore give first injection during or shortly after menstruation.

Patient teaching
- Ensure women are aware that goserelin may cause their menstrual cycle to become irregular or menstrual periods to cease.

- Barrier methods of contraception should be used to prevent pregnancy while on this medication.

- Women who suspect they are pregnant should seek immediate medical attention, as there is a risk of goserelin causing problems to the unborn baby.

Nurses should refer to manufacturer's summary of product characteristics and to appropriate local guidelines

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