Nafarelin

About Nafarelin

This belongs to the group of medicines known as gonadorelin analogues.

Nafarelin is used in the treatment of endometriosis. It can also be used as part of the treatment for infertility.

When used over a period of time Nafarelin reduces the production of certain hormones by the pituitary gland. This in turn reduces the production of sex hormones such as oestrogen. Sex hormones can worsen certain problems associated with the menstrual cycle, such as endometriosis, and therefore by reducing the levels of sex hormones Nafarelin is useful in treating these conditions.

Nafarelin is available in nasal spray form.

The brand available is: Synarel Nasal Spray.

Before using Nafarelin

Before using Nafarelin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from bone disease
• if you suffer from vaginal bleeding not related to your monthly period
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Nafarelin

• Use Nafarelin exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• If you sneeze during or immediately after spraying a dose of Nafarelin into your nostril, repeat the dose straight away.
• Nafarelin should be used for a maximum of six months.
• Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Nafarelin contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Nafarelin is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is important not to become pregnant while you are being treated with Nafarelin. Use a barrier method of contraception, such as condoms, over the duration of your treatment.
• Blow your nose well before using Nafarelin nasal spray. Do not be too concerned if you have a cold as the medicine will still be absorbed.
• Do not use nasal decongestants before or for at least 30 minutes after using Nafarelin Nasal Spray.
• You may notice your symptoms become worse when you first start treatment with Nafarelin. This is nothing to worry about and your symptoms should start to improve after a couple of weeks.
• Nafarelin can cause problems with eyesight. Make sure your eyesight is unaffected before driving or doing any other tasks which could be dangerous if you were unable to see properly.
• Before taking or using any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to use alongside Nafarelin.

Can Nafarelin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Hot flushes, sweating, vaginal dryness, painful sexual intercourse, lack of interest in sex, headaches, skin rashes, itching, bleeding between menstrual periods, a sore, stuffy or bleeding nose; being aware of your heart beat, changes in breast size, muscle pain, weakness, problems with eyesight, pins and needles, changes with scalp and body hair, puffiness of the face, fingers and toes, mood changes or acne.

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Nafarelin

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 23/03/2005