Rexigo medication works effectively only when prostate cancer cells depend on testosterone for growth. By suppressing testosterone production, Rexigo helps limit hormonal stimulation of these cells and supports disease control as part of a comprehensive treatment plan supervised by healthcare professionals.
Benefits of Rexigo:
- Relugolix has been studied in clinical trials and shown to effectively suppress testosterone levels in patients with advanced prostate cancer.
- The medication begins reducing testosterone levels relatively quickly after treatment begins, with significant reductions often observed within days.
- When taken daily, Rexigo maintains consistent suppression of testosterone levels.
- Duration of action: Effects continue with regular weekly dosing under medical supervision.
- Generic or alternative formulations of relugolix may offer more affordable treatment options compared to some injectable hormonal therapies.
- Oral administration provides a convenient alternative to certain injectable androgen deprivation therapies used in prostate cancer treatment.
Working of Rexigo:
Rexigo works by blocking the hormonal signals responsible for testosterone production.
- The body normally produces testosterone in response to signals from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
- These signals involve the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland.
- The pituitary gland then releases hormones that trigger testosterone production in the testes.
- Relugolix acts as a GnRH receptor antagonist, blocking the GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland.
- This blockage prevents the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
- As a result, testosterone production decreases significantly.
Lower testosterone levels reduce the hormonal stimulation that prostate cancer cells need to grow, helping control disease progression.
Dosage of Rexigo:
Rexigo should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Standard Dose: Treatment typically begins with a loading dose, followed by a maintenance dose of 120 mg once daily, depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
- Frequency: Taken once daily at approximately the same time each day.
- Timing: The medication may be taken with or without food.
- Administration Method: Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Side Effects of Rexigo:
These side effects are generally mild and may improve over time.
Common Side Effects
- Hot flashes
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Increased sweating
- Mild digestive discomfort
Serious Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
- Chest pain or symptoms of heart problems
- Irregular heartbeat
- Severe weakness or fainting
- Unusual swelling or severe pain
