Has anyone change Firmagon to Orgovyx?

[petrig]

Did you start Orgovyx after Firmagon injection or 28 days after?Did you start with 3 pills or one?

[Seasid]

Switching from Firmagon (degarelix) to Orgovyx (relugolix) is not uncommon, as both are androgen deprivation therapies (ADTs) for advanced prostate cancer but work slightly differently in terms of administration. Firmagon is an injectable GnRH antagonist, while Orgovyx is an oral GnRH antagonist.

Transition Considerations:

1. Timing:

Patients typically transition to Orgovyx after their Firmagon dose has worn off, which is usually around 28 days after the last injection. However, timing may vary based on your oncologist's recommendation.

2. Starting Dosage:

Orgovyx is initiated with a loading dose of 360 mg (3 pills) on the first day, followed by a maintenance dose of 120 mg (1 pill) daily. Starting with 3 pills ensures rapid suppression of testosterone levels, similar to what Firmagon achieves.

Why Transition?

Ease of Administration: Orgovyx is an oral medication, avoiding the discomfort of injections.

Side Effect Profile: Some patients may tolerate Orgovyx better or experience fewer injection-related side effects.

Convenience: Daily pills might be preferable for those who dislike frequent visits for injections.

Before switching, consult your oncologist to tailor the timing and dosage based on your treatment plan and testosterone/PSA levels.

ChatGPT said

[petrig in reply to Seasid]

I think you dont have to take the loading dose (3 pills)when you are already in supression of testosterone(Firmagon).I just got the prescription for Orgovyx and had Firmsgon injection today.So I start direct with 1 pill.

[Seasid in reply to petrig]

I don't really know myself but I would definitely check that with my pharmacist, doctors and even with the manufacturer of orgovix. Better safe than sorry. What you are saying make sense.

[petrig in reply to Seasid]

Pharmacist did nit know so I send yesterday email to manufacturer/pharmaceutical factory.My doctor called me yesterday but I forgot to ask. But if thinking common sense you already have supression of testosterone (when in Firmagon/Lupron) so you can continue direct withOrgovyx.

[Seasid in reply to petrig]

You are probably correct. What I don't understand, if they prescribed orgovix they should clarify with you this sort of things.

Maybe this is straight forward but in general every change of medication is actually a very serious affair.

I believe if after 28 days on firmagon 80 mg injection you could probably just continue with a daily dose of orgovix, but again I don't really know and I am not a doctor. I believe the prescribing doctor should be able to clarify the dosing, the other thing is a manufacturer or orgovix. I hope that they will be able to help you.

Just as a note, it is not related to a cancer medication, but my sister tried to change medication and because their was a little confusion plus maybe not enough engagement from her doctor she ended up staying with the same medication.

[Seasid in reply to petrig]

You're correct—if you are already in testosterone suppression from Firmagon, a loading dose of Orgovyx may not be necessary. The purpose of the loading dose is to rapidly suppress testosterone levels, which Firmagon has already achieved. Starting directly with the maintenance dose of 120 mg (1 pill daily) is often sufficient in such cases.

However, the exact approach should follow your oncologist's guidance. Since you just received a Firmagon injection, its effects will maintain testosterone suppression for about 28 days, providing a smooth transition to Orgovyx without a gap in therapy.

It's always good to confirm this plan with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure you're aligning with the intended treatment strategy.

ChatGPT said

[Seasid]

What is the reason that you prefer pill instead of firmagon degarelix ADT injections?

[petrig in reply to Seasid]

Why make an appointment and go to nurse every month when one can easily take a pill with other pills .In addition,with Firmagon reactions at the injection site include temporary redness, slight pain, and swelling ,rash and a lump under the skin.

[Seasid in reply to petrig]

I understand that. I really have no problem going to get the injections. But you are right for your situation. Maybe they are not injecting properly the drug.

[Mascouche]

Personally I like the shorter half life of Orgovyx. It doesn't matter much while under treatment but it is out of your body faster when taking a vacation from ADT