Hormone Therapy Medications

One common treatment option for uterine fibroids is hormonal therapies. Since fibroids grow in response to the hormones estrogen and progesterone, medications can be used to reduce the effects of these hormones and shrink fibroids. Some common hormone therapy drugs used include:

GnRH Analogues: Uterine Fibroids Treatment Drugs work by blocking the production of estrogen and progesterone in the body on a temporary basis. Some examples are leuprolide (Lupron) and goserelin (Zoladex). They are very effective at shrinking fibroids but side effects from lack of hormones include menopause-like symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Treatment typically lasts for 3-6 months.

Aromatase Inhibitors: These work by blocking the conversion of androgens into estrogen in body fat tissue. Anastrozole and letrozole are aromatase inhibitors sometimes used “off-label” for 3-6 months for fibroid treatment. Side effects are similar to GnRH analogues.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Drugs like ulipristal acetate (Esmya) work by blocking the effects of estrogen on fibroid and endometrial tissue specifically while sparing other estrogen effects elsewhere. It is taken for up to 3 months. Common side effects include headache, nausea, abdominal pain and breast tenderness.

Antifibrinolytics: Tranexamic acid (Lysteda) is rarely used for heavy periods associated with fibroids. It works by inhibiting the breakdown of blood clots to reduce menstrual bleeding. Common side effects are nausea, headaches, fatigue and joint pain.

Non-Hormonal Medications

For women who cannot take or do not want to take hormonal treatments due to side effects, non-hormonal options exist. Some examples include:

NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory Uterine Fibroids Treatment Drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen can temporarily help relieve cramps and pain associated with fibroids by reducing prostaglandin levels. They do not treat fibroids directly but provide symptom relief during a menstrual period.

Antibiotics: Certain broad spectrum antibiotics that penetrate the uterus have been used for their potential anti-inflammatory properties when taken for 2-3 months. Options include doxycycline or metronidazole. They help reduce bleeding but do not shrink fibroids.

Get More Insights on- Uterine Fibroids Treatment Drugs