DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Nafarelin

March 21, 2017

Nafarelin Acetate Nasal spray, solution

What is this medicine?

NAFARELIN (naf A re lin) is a man-made hormone that is like a hormone made in the body. It will lower the amount of testosterone in males and estrogen in females. It is used to treat endometriosis. This medicine is also used to diagnose and to treat precocious puberty.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • diabetes

  • heart disease or previous heart attack

  • high blood pressure

  • high cholesterol

  • osteoporosis or low bone density

  • stroke

  • tobacco smoker

  • unusual vaginal bleeding

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to nafarelin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use in the nose only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • herbal products like chasteberry

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • other nose sprays

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. Your symptoms may get worse for a short time after starting this medicine. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not get better.

This medicine can make your bones weaker over time. If you smoke or drink alcohol often you may increase your risk of bone loss. Also, a family history of osteoporosis, and use of corticosteroids or drugs for seizures can increase your risk of bone loss. Talk to your doctor about ways to help keep your bones strong.

If you use a decongestant nose spray, wait for 2 hours after using this medicine to use the decongestant spray.

Use a non-hormonal method of birth control while taking this medicine. If you think you might be pregnant, call your doctor.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • breathing problems

  • changes in vision

  • chest pain

  • depression, mood changes

  • sudden headache

  • swelling of hands, feet

  • vaginal bleeding, discharge

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • acne

  • body odor

  • change in sex drive or performance

  • hot flashes

  • increase in breast size at start of therapy

  • runny nose

  • trouble sleeping

  • vaginal dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Store bottle right side up. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert