This information explains how to care for your injection site after getting a degarelix (DEH-guh-REH-lix) injection (shot). The injection site is where the needle went into your skin.
About degarelix injections
Degarelix is a medicine used to treat prostate cancer. Your healthcare provider will inject it into the fatty part of your abdomen (belly).
Caring for your injection site
- Keep the area clean.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing.
- Do not rub or scratch the injection site.
- It’s safe to shower, bathe, swim, or to get your injection site wet.
There will be a small lump at your injection site. You can put a bandage over it. It’s OK to leave it uncovered.
You may have some redness, soreness, and discomfort at the injection site. These should go away after a few days. If you do, put a cold compress, ice, or ice pack on the area while you’re awake, as needed. Do this for 20 minutes every hour for up to 24 hours (1 day) after your injection.
Symptoms of an injection site reaction
Some people have mild (not bad) to moderate (a little worse) reactions at their injection site. These are often temporary (last a short time).
Symptoms include swelling, and pain that is more than discomfort.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider if you:
- Have symptoms of an injection site reaction that do not go away within 3 days.
- Feel pain at your injection site. Ask your healthcare provider if it’s OK to use over-the-counter pain medicine. Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) are examples of over-the-counter pain medicines. You do not need a prescription for these medicines.
