Uterine fibroids are small non-cancerous lumps in the uterus. This lumps or tumors can be treated. It can be done through surgery, minimally invasive procedures or medications.
The following are medications that are used to treat fibroids:
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Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator (SPRM)
This medication changes the effects of progesterone in the body. Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries, adrenal glands and placenta. This regulates the inner lining of the uterus.
SPRM inhibits the growth of fibroids.
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Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Agonist (GnRH Agonist)
This medication treats fibroids by blocking the production of estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is a hormone that is responsible for regulating the female’s menstrual cycle.
Estrogen and progesterone are the hormones that can cause a fibroid to grow.
These medications shrink fibroids by creating a temporary menopause. It stops the ovaries from producing estrogen hormones. This will then drop estrogen level and causes the fibroids to shrink. The fibroids will eventually disappear.
The following are some known GnRH medications:
Leuprolide (Lupron Eligard)
Goserelin (Zoladex)
Triptorelin (Triptodur Kit, Trelstar)
GnRH agonists are typically used not more than 3-6 months. This is because it can cause premenopausal condition. Long term use of the medicine can also cause bone loss.
Some medicine only relieves the symptoms but not totally treat uterine fibroids. They are used to relieve pain. Others are used to ease heavy menstrual flow caused by fibroids.
Examples of these medicines are:
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Tranexamic Acid (Cyktokapron ,Lysteda)
This non- hormonal medication is taken to ease heavy menstrual period.
This is to be taken only during heavy bleeding days.
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Non-Steroidal agents
Examples of this are Naproxen and Ibuprofen.
This is to relieve pain and cramps. It may also reduce bleeding associated to uterine fibroids.
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Progestine- releasing intrauterine device
This is recommended for those who don’t want to get pregnant yet.
This relieves bleeding caused by the fibroids.
It is used to provide symptom relief.
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Depo-provera (DMPA or Depo shot)
This is a birth control shot. It is administered once in every three months.
Depo-provera only have progesterone, it doesn’t increase the risk of fibroid growth and development.
This shot is used also to treat women suffering from menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea caused by fibroids. Menorrhagia is a condition where menstrual periods are abnormally heavy or prolonged.
Dysmenorrhea is also known as menstrual cramps or painful periods. The pain is usually in the lower abdomen or in the pelvis.
Depo-provera is to be used not more than 2 years. This is because it can cause premature menopause. Long term use of the product can cause loss of bone mineral density.
Things to remember:
Always consult a doctor before taking in any medications stated above. This is because every person experience different effects from the medication. It is best to consult to check if the medication is right for you.
Work hand in hand with your doctor. Don’t be hesitant to ask other treatment plans that might work for you.
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