Published: 4 March 2021
Publications
Administering goserelin implants
Published: 4 March 2021
Prescriber Update 42(1): 10
March 2021
Goserelin acetate is a synthetic analogue of naturally occurring luteinising-hormone
releasing hormone. Goserelin inhibits pituitary luteinising-hormone
secretion, leading to a fall in serum testosterone concentrations in
men and serum oestradiol concentrations in women.
There are currently two approved, funded brands of goserelin implants: Zoladex and Goserelin (Teva).
Administration complaints
Medsafe has received reports of administration problems associated with goserelin implants. The most common issues are:
- difficulty firing the implant
- the implant not remaining at the injection site.
Medsafe’s investigation of these administration issues has identified the following potential causes:
- the shield and syringe were damaged before administration
- insufficient force used to push the plunger
- the plunger rod not being fully depressed.
Tips for administration
Before administration, make sure you understand all the instructions contained in the package insert. In particular:
- do not use any product that has been opened or damaged
- make sure the barrel or protective sleeve of the syringe touches the patient’s skin during implantation
- use sufficient force so that the plunger is fully depressed.
For further information on goserelin implants, refer to the Zoladex1 and Goserelin (Teva)2 data sheets.
A Zoladex administration video is also available.
References
- AstraZeneca Limited. 2020. Zoladex New Zealand Data Sheet 8 May 2020. URL: medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/z/Zoladex10implant.pdf (accessed 13 January 2021).
- Teva Pharma (New Zealand) Limited. 2018. Goserelin (Teva) New Zealand Data Sheet 19 July 2018. URL: medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/G/Goserelin108implant.pdf (accessed 13 January 2021).