1. < Prostate Cancer

Has anyone else moved from Firmagon to Orgovyx?

Posted by northoftheborder @northoftheborder, Apr 11, 2024

I have stage 4 (oligometastatic) prostate cancer, and will be on ADT and androgen-reception inhibitors, basically, forever. I've been on monthly Firmagon (Degarelix) injections for over 2 1/2 years — Lupron was contra-indicated because I already had high PSA and a metastasis, so we didn't want an initial testosterone surge — and I'd assumed that I'd just have to learn to live with 3 sick days every month and abdominal swelling and soreness at the injection site forever.

Fortunately, Health Canada has just approved Orgovyx (Relugolix) for use in our country, and the head of my oncology team put me on it right away — I'll start at the end of April, as soon as my current Firmagon shot expires.

I'd love to hear from others who have made this transition, since Orgovyx has been available in the U.S. for a couple of years already. What were your experiences? I expect that the chronic day-to-day symptoms are the same, but I'm excited about no longer having the acute symptoms for a few days after every injection.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Prostate Cancer Support Group.

northoftheborder | @northoftheborder | Jun 12 8:12pm
In reply to @jules1969 "Hello @northoftheborder do you know what is causing the lower hemoglobin? My husband is experiencing that..." + (show)
@jules1969

Hello @northoftheborder do you know what is causing the lower hemoglobin? My husband is experiencing that as well.

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Anemia or borderline anemia is a known side-effect of hormone therapy, unfortunately. I'm managing to keep mine just inside the normal range these days, but only just. It would be worth asking his medical team about iron supplements and/or dietary changes.

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trchar | @trchar | Jun 13 11:02am
In reply to @mark1952 "Hello, scaramouche, I am just into my second month on Orgovyx. My biggest problem with Orgovyx..." + (show)
@mark1952

Hello, scaramouche,
I am just into my second month on Orgovyx. My biggest problem with Orgovyx has been constipation. I had pre-existing chronic constipation and the Orgovyx has made it considerably worse, plus I seem to have stomach cramping and pain, which may or may not be related to the increased constipation. But the good news is no hot flashes, no big loss of energy, no weight gain, no breast enlargement, no suicidal thoughts, etc. I have had pretty minor, and intermittent, joint pain, muscle pain, and restless leg syndrome (at night). From what others have experienced, my side-effects could be much worse. Best of luck to you!

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I am 2 months into ogorvyx very very minimal side effects so far if any some extra perspiration every now and then but im in Florida and it’s exceptionally hot and humid so far, also taking abiraterone. Staying hydrated mostly but so far minimal side effects. I guess the worse is yet to come I do have deep concerns regarding hemoglobin levels, liver and kidney functions, as well as blood sugar levels. First blood test is next month in July.

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