goserelin (implant)

Pronunciation: GOE se REL in

Brand: Zoladex

What is the most important information I should know about goserelin?

Unless you are being treated for advanced breast cancer, you should not use a goserelin implant during pregnancy.

What is goserelin?

Goserelin is a man-made form of a hormone that regulates many processes in the body. Goserelin overstimulates the body's own production of certain hormones, which causes that production to shut down temporarily.

Goserelin implant is used in men to treat symptoms of prostate cancer.

Goserelin implant is used in women to treat breast cancer or endometriosis. Goserelin is also used in women to prepare the lining of the uterus for endometrial ablation (a surgery to correct abnormal uterine bleeding).

Goserelin implant may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving goserelin?

You should not use this implant if you are allergic to goserelin, or:

  • if you are allergic to other hormone medications such as leuprolide (Lupron, Eligard, Viadur), nafarelin (Synarel), or ganirelix (Antagon).


To make sure goserelin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • diabetes;
  • heart disease, heart attack, or stroke;
  • risk factors for coronary artery disease (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or being overweight);
  • personal or family history of long QT syndrome;
  • osteoporosis or low bone density;
  • a condition affecting your spine;

Goserelin can decrease bone mineral density, which may increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. This risk may be greater if you smoke, drink alcohol frequently, have a family history of osteoporosis, or use certain drugs such as seizure medications or steroids. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk of bone loss.

This medicine can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. However, goserelin is sometimes given to pregnant women being treated for advanced breast cancer. Unless you are being treated for advanced breast cancer, you should not use goserelin during pregnancy.


Use a barrier form of birth control (condom or diaphragm with spermicide). Hormonal contraception (birth control pills, injections, implants, skin patches, and vaginal rings) may not be effective enough to prevent pregnancy during your treatment. Keep using birth control for at least 12 weeks after the implant is removed.

It is not known whether goserelin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while the implant is in place.

How is goserelin given?


Your dosing schedule may be different if you are also receiving chemotherapy. Follow your doctor's instructions. It is very important to receive your goserelin injections on time each month.

You are not likely to be able to feel the implant through your skin, and it should not cause pain or discomfort. The implant will dissolve in your body over time.

While your hormone levels are adjusting, you may notice new or worsening symptoms of your condition during the first few weeks of treatment. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after several weeks.

If you are a premenopausal woman, you should stop having menstrual periods while the goserelin implant is in place. Call your doctor if you still have regular periods. Missing a dose can cause breakthrough bleeding. After you stop using goserelin, you should begin having regular periods within 12 weeks.

Your blood sugar may need to be checked while using goserelin, even if you are not diabetic. You may need other blood tests at your doctor's office.

Goserelin can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using goserelin.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your goserelin implant injection.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while receiving goserelin?




What are the possible side effects of goserelin?


Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • painful or difficult urination;
  • pain, bruising, swelling, redness, oozing, or bleeding where the implant was injected;

Common side effects may include:

  • hot flashes, sweating;
  • mood changes, increased or decreased interest in sex;
  • changes in sexual function, fewer erections than normal;
  • headache;
  • swelling in your hands or feet;
  • vaginal dryness, itching, or discharge;
  • changes in breast size; or
  • acne, mild skin rash or itching.


What other drugs will affect goserelin?


This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with goserelin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about goserelin implant.



Copyright 1996-2019 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 7.05. Revision date: 8/16/2017.

goserelin (implant)