Abarelix: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action

What is Abarelix?

Abarelix is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist used primarily to treat advanced symptomatic prostate cancer, particularly in patients for whom GnRH agonist therapy is not appropriate and who do not require immediate surgical castration.

✅ Uses:

• Palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer
• Reduces testosterone levels rapidly without the initial surge (flare) seen with GnRH agonists

Mechanism of Action:

• Abarelix binds to GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland
• This blocks the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
• Ultimately leads to suppressed testosterone production, slowing prostate cancer growth

⚠️ Key Considerations:

• May cause allergic reactions (anaphylaxis in rare cases)
• Requires monitoring for QT prolongation and liver function

What Class of Drug is Abarelix?

Drug Class:
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Antagonist

ICD-11 Codes & Diagnostic Criteria

What is the ICD-11 code for substance-induced psychosis?

ICD-11 Code: 6C41

Full Description:
"Substance-induced psychotic disorder" – Psychotic symptoms that are directly caused by substance use, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, occurring during intoxication or withdrawal.

Reference: ICD-11 - 6C41

What is the ICD-11 code for stimulant dependence?

ICD-11 Code: 6C4F.2

Full Description:
"Disorders due to use of stimulants, including amphetamines, methamphetamine or methcathinone, dependence syndrome"

This includes compulsive use, cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal.

Reference: ICD-11 - 6C4F.2

What are the Criteria for ICD-11 Dementia?

ICD-11 Code: 6D80

Full Name: "Dementia" under the category of Neurocognitive disorders

Diagnostic Criteria: To meet the diagnosis of Dementia (6D80), the following must be present:

1. Significant decline from previous level of cognitive functioning in:
• Memory
• Language
• Executive function
• Attention
• Visuospatial abilities
• Social cognition
2. Cognitive impairment must interfere with independence in everyday activities.
3. Symptoms must persist for at least several months and be:
• Not better explained by delirium
• Not solely due to psychiatric illness (e.g., depression)
4. The cause may be Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disease, or other specified disorders.

Reference: ICD-11 - 6D80

Summary Table: