Indications
- This medication is utilized by women to alleviate moderate to severe pain associated with a condition known as endometriosis.
- Endometriosis involves the growth of tissue that typically lines the inside of the womb (uterus) in alternate locations, such as the outside surface of the uterus, ovaries, or other organs.
- Symptoms of endometriosis may include painful, heavy, or irregular menstrual periods, pain during or after sexual intercourse, or infertility.
- Elagolix functions by reducing the body’s production of specific hormones, including luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, resulting in decreased levels of female sex hormones (estrogens).
- The reduction in estrogen levels may contribute to alleviating some symptoms associated with endometriosis.
Dosage and administration
- Before starting elagolix, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Your doctor may conduct a pregnancy test before initiating this medication or instruct you to start taking it within 7 days after the start of your menstrual period to ensure you are not pregnant. Begin taking this medication only as directed by your doctor.
- Take this medication orally with or without food as instructed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be using. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. To minimize the risk of bone loss, this medication is typically taken for up to 6 months or up to 24 months. Consult your doctor for specific details.
- Use this medication regularly to derive the maximum benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Side effects
- Common side effects of this medication may include nausea, trouble sleeping, hot flashes, night sweats, headache, or menstrual period changes. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has determined that the benefit to you outweighs the risk of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including mental/mood changes such as new or worsening depression, anxiety, or unusual changes in behaviour, as well as signs of liver damage like persistent nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing of eyes/skin, or dark urine.
- Seek medical assistance promptly if you have any very serious side effects, including thoughts of suicide.
- This medication reduces estrogen levels in the body, which can result in bone loss. The risk increases with higher doses or prolonged use. Some bone loss may be irreversible, so it’s advisable to take this medication at the lowest effective dose. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking this medication with your doctor and inquire about calcium supplements and vitamin D for bone health.
- While rare, a serious allergic reaction to this drug can occur. Seek medical help immediately if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list does not encompass all possible side effects. If you observe any other effects not mentioned here, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before initiating elagolix, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other issues. Discuss this with your pharmacist for further details.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have liver problems, bone loss (osteoporosis), or mental/mood disorders such as depression.
- Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- This medication must not be used during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. Inquire about reliable forms of non-hormonal birth control (such as condoms, and spermicide) while using this medication and for 4 weeks after discontinuing treatment. Because this medication affects menstruation, it may be more difficult to determine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor immediately.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.