What Patients Should Know Before Starting to Prepare for Lupride Injections

ByArwa Aliakber
Updated: 10 Nov 2025, 11:00 am
Medical Reviewed by Dr. Shobha Gupta

One of the terms you are likely to hear during your fertility treatment is Lupride injections. Starting fertility treatments can feel scary. The thought of which medicine will be going into your body can cause anxiety. However, understanding what Lupride injection is, how it’s used, and what precautions to take can make your treatment smoother and less stressful.

Pregatips.com
Lupride (leuprolide acetate) is a medication that helps your doctor regulate your hormones during IVF or other fertility treatments.
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Lupride works by temporarily lowering the levels of certain hormones in your body. This helps your doctor control your ovulation timing. As a result, your doctor can prevent eggs from being released too early and prepare your uterus for embryo transfer.

What to Tell Your Doctor Before Starting Lupride?

Your doctor will inform you when your fertility treatment with Lupride hormone injection will start. Before you receive your first injection, your doctor will ask you about your medical history. This helps your doctor ensure Lupride treatment is safe and right for you.

Before your treatment starts, tell your doctor if you have:
  • Diabetes or a family history of diabetes
  • Heart disease or heart failure
  • Liver or kidney problems
  • Seizures
  • A history of depression or mood disorders
  • Irregular heartbeat or any rhythm problems
  • Low or high levels of electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, or sodium
  • Osteoporosis or bone-related conditions
  • Any brain or pituitary tumours
Also, let your doctor know if you:
  • Are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding
  • Have allergies to any medicines, foods, or preservatives
  • Smoke, drink alcohol, or use any herbal supplements
NOTE: Although Lupride is used during fertility treatment, it should not be used if you are already pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor will usually ask for a pregnancy test before starting.

How are Lupride Injections Given?

Lupride is given as an injection by your doctor or nurse. Depending on your treatment plan, it may be injected:
  • Under the skin (subcutaneous), usually in your belly or thigh
  • Into a muscle (intramuscular), usually in your upper arm or hip
Your healthcare provider decides how often you need to take Lupride injections. Some women receive it daily, while others get it once a month or every few weeks.

If you’re asked to take the injection at home, your nurse will show you exactly how to do it safely.

Tips to follow for safe injection use:
  • Wash your hands before and after using the injection
  • Use a new needle every time
  • Inject the medicine slowly and rotate spots to avoid redness or soreness
  • Never share your medicine with anyone


What to Do If You Miss a Dose

Try not to miss your Lupride doses. The timing is crucial for your treatment to stay on track.
If you do miss a dose or an appointment, call your doctor or clinic as soon as possible. Do not take an extra dose on your own — your doctor will tell you what to do next.

What are the Possible Drug Interactions to Watch Out For?

Certain medicines can interfere with how Lupride works or increase side effects. Inform your doctor about all the medicines, supplements, or herbal products you use, including over-the-counter ones.

Some medicines that affect heart rhythm can interact with Lupride, so it’s important your doctor knows all the medicines you are taking.

What to Expect During Treatment with Lupride?

Once you start Lupride injections, your care team will closely monitor you. This helps them ensure your hormones respond correctly to the treatment and your body is ready for egg growth and retrieval.

At first, you might notice minor changes as your hormones adjust to the treatment. These can include mild headaches, tiredness, or mood swings. These are normal and usually settle with time.

NOTE: Always tell your doctor if something feels off.

When to Call Your Doctor?

Your doctor will guide you through every stage of treatment, but it helps to know when to reach out immediately.

Call your healthcare provider immediately if you notice:
  • Severe headaches or vision changes
  • Chest pain, or shortness of breath
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Rash, hives, or swelling on the face or lips
  • Fainting, palpitations, or irregular heartbeat
  • Numbness, weakness, or difficulty speaking (possible stroke signs)
  • Extreme fatigue
  • New seizures
Inform your doctor if you notice rash with fever, as Lupride can sometimes cause delayed skin reactions.

What are Some Common Side Effects You Might Notice?

Like many hormone treatments, Lupride can cause temporary side effects. In most instances, the side effects are mild and go away when treatment ends.

Common effects of Lupride injection include:
  • Tenderness or redness at the injection site
  • Hot flashes or night sweats
  • Mild headache
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Mood changes or irritability
  • Mild swelling of hands or feet
Less common but serious side effects of Lupride injection include:
  • Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing)
  • Chest pain or heart rhythm changes
  • Severe rash or skin peeling
  • High blood sugar, especially if you are diabetic

What are some Fertility-Focused Risks and Precautions to take with Lupride?

Lupride helps your doctor control your hormones, but there are some things to be careful with:
  • Temporary infertility: Lupride suppresses ovulation while in use. Don’t worry, fertility returns after stopping treatment.
  • Pregnancy safety: Do not use Lupride if you’re already pregnant. It can harm the developing baby.
  • Bone health: Long-term use may lower bone density. Your doctor may suggest calcium and vitamin D supplements if needed.
  • Emotional changes: Hormone shifts can affect mood or cause anxiety. Talk to your doctor if you notice major mood swings.
  • Blood sugar levels: Lupride can slightly increase blood sugar. If you have diabetes, your doctor will check your levels regularly.
NOTE: Always attend your follow-up visits and lab tests. These help your care team keep your treatment safe and effective.

Being aware of Lupride injections is important as it helps you trust your doctor and treatment. While being treated with Lupride, inform your doctor about your complete medical history. Follow every piece of advice your doctor gives, and tell them if you feel anything unusual. Do not shy away from asking your doctor any questions you may have about the treatment.

Disclaimer
The information shared in this blog is for educational and awareness purposes only. It should not be used as an alternative to medical advice. Always seek guidance from a healthcare professional before using this medicine.

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FAQs on What Patients Should Know Before Starting to Prepare for Lupride Injections

  1. How do I know if Lupride is working?
    Your doctor will monitor you regularly to check how well your boy is responding to Lupride with blood tests and ultrasounds.
  2. Can I take Lupride at home?
    Take Lupride injections at home only if your doctor has prescribed them. Do not take it without informing your doctor.

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