Plenaxis

Plenaxis

Generic Name: abarelix (a BAR eh lix)

Brand Names: Plenaxis

What is Plenaxis?

Plenaxis reduces the amount of testosterone produced in the body.

Plenaxis is used in the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

Plenaxis may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Plenaxis

In some cases, the use of Plenaxis has resulted in serious allergic reactions. An allergic reaction may occur after any injection of the medication, including, but not limited to the first dose. Patients should be observed in the doctor's office for at least 30 minutes following each dose so that immediate treatment of an allergic reaction can be obtained if needed.

Treatment with Plenaxis may become less effective over time in some patients. Monitoring blood levels of testosterone will be done on a regular basis with blood tests to monitor the effectiveness of the medication.

Plenaxis is not intended for use by women. Plenaxis is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that Plenaxis will cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or if you could become pregnant during treatment.

Before using Plenaxis

Before using Plenaxis, tell your doctor if you

have irregular heartbeats;

have liver problems;

have osteoporosis; or

weigh more than 225 pounds.

You may not be able to use Plenaxis, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Plenaxis is not intended for use by women. Plenaxis is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that Plenaxis will cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or if you could become pregnant during treatment. Plenaxis is not intended for use by women. It is not known whether Plenaxis passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Plenaxis?

Plenaxis must be administered by a qualified healthcare provider.

Plenaxis is administered as an injection into the muscle.

In some cases, the use of Plenaxis has resulted in serious allergic reactions. An allergic reaction may occur after any injection of the medication, including, but not limited to the first dose. Patients should be observed in the doctor's office for at least 30 minutes following each dose so that immediate treatment of an allergic reaction can be obtained if needed.

Treatment with Plenaxis may become less effective over time in some patients. Monitoring blood levels of testosterone will be done on a regular basis with blood tests to monitor the effectiveness of the medication.

It is important to use Plenaxis regularly to get the most benefit.

Plenaxis vials for injection should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of Plenaxis.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Plenaxis is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect that an overdose has occurred, contact your doctor, hospital emergency room, or poison control center for advice.

What should I avoid while using Plenaxis?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while using Plenaxis. Follow any special instructions given by your doctor.

Plenaxis side effects

In some cases, the use of Plenaxis has resulted in serious allergic reactions. An allergic reaction may occur after any injection of the medication, including, but not limited to the first dose. Patients should be observed in the doctor's office for at least 30 minutes following each dose so that immediate treatment of an allergic reaction can be obtained if needed.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience

hot flashes;

sleep disturbances;

breast enlargement or pain;

diarrhea or constipation;

swelling;

nausea;

dizziness;

headache;

fatigue; or

changes with or difficulty urinating.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

See also: Plenaxis side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Plenaxis?

It is not known whether Plenaxis will interact with other medicines. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products during treatment with Plenaxis.

More Plenaxis resources

Plenaxis Side Effects (in More Detail)

Plenaxis Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Plenaxis Drug Interactions

Plenaxis Support Group

0 Reviews for Plenaxis - Add your own review/rating

Plenaxis Monograph (AHFS DI)

Plenaxis Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

Plenaxis MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Abarelix Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Plenaxis with other medications

Prostate Cancer

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about Plenaxis written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Abarelix is available with a prescription under the brand name Plenaxis as an injection. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.