My treatment plan and related side-effects from Lupron are almost identical. I completed radiation treatment in May and plan to have my PSA tested in September. I remain on Lupron until then. My goal is to stop Lupron in September, presuming my PSA levels have dropped to a low and acceptable level. I will then be re-tested approximately 3 months later to determine if there has been any change in my PSA. Frankly, I don't believe there is a standard protocol for the duration of Lupron based on MD conversations and my own research. It has become apparent to me that some MDs will err on the side of long duration, even as long as two years to make sure that any remaining or emergent cancer cells post-radiation are starved of all testosterone to prohibit growth. Of course, extended use of Lupron guarantees that you will continue to suffer side-effects for some time, the most difficult of which in my judgment is the loss of libido. After two years on Lupron, regaining your libido after cessation of hormone treatment is highly problematic. Moreover, Lupron also can contribute to longer term health problems, including coronary issues. Much depends on the health on the individual patient. As always with prostate cancer it seems, hormone deprivation therapy comes with its own series of trade-offs that make clearcut decisions difficult. I would bring your hard questions to your urologist when you meet with him on this topic.

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