Goserelin Acetate Implant

Available by prescription only, the goserelin acetate implant is licensed to treat advanced prostate cancer, breast cancer, and certain gynecological problems in women. It works by stopping production of testosterone in the testes and estrogen production in the ovaries. The implant is surgically placed just under the skin of the stomach, where it releases medication as it dissolves over 4 to 12 weeks.

What Is the Goserelin Acetate Implant?

The goserelin acetate implant (Zoladex®) is a prescription hormone medication approved for use in prostate cancer, breast cancer, and certain gynecological conditions. It comes as a tiny implant that is injected just beneath the skin every 4 or 12 weeks.
 
(Click What Is Goserelin Acetate Implant Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, the goserelin acetate implant may cause side effects.
 However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Some of the most common side effects of the goserelin acetate implant include but are not limited to:
 
  • Hot flushes
  • Headaches
  • Vaginal irritation, itching, or discharge
  • Mood changes.
 
(Click Goserelin Acetate Implant Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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