Watch out for pseudo-science and partial information! Lupron is sometimes used for puberty suppression in young trans people. It is also used in adults for serious diseases, most notably for advanced cancer. These adults may have severe and widespread disease. Lupron is not a cure for cancer, it can only slow the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors. Since the online database (referenced in these misleading articles) does not include specifics about the health of the individuals involved, we can’t know who died while on Lupron. Ongoing research for trans youth on puberty suppression is crucial, but there is NO evidence this treatment is linked to risk of death.
NBC News article debunking claims ›
About puberty blockers
How do puberty blockers work?
Puberty blockers (called GnRH analogues) cause your body to stop releasing puberty hormones (LH and FSH). This is like hitting a ‘pause button’ on puberty.
What are the different kinds of puberty blocking medicines?
Depo Lupron or Leuprolide
This medicine is given as an injection (shot) once every 3 months. If you use this kind of puberty blocker, you will need to come to clinic every 3 months for the injection.
Are these medicines safety approved? We can safely and legally recommend puberty blockers for you based on our medical experience and judgement and your specific health needs. The Endocrine Society and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health support puberty blockers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves puberty blockers for children who start puberty at a very young age, but has not approved puberty blockers for transgender children.