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Leoprolide (Lupron) shot monthly or removal of ovaries?

Breast Cancer | Last Active: Jun 11 1:13pm | Replies (36)

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@abarone389

Hi - Do you take anything other than Lupron. I was taking tamoxifen, but the side effects were HORRIBLE, so I just had the shot that last 3 months about 3 weeks ago and am supposed to start armidex but I'm scared. I feel awful from the lupron, so don't want to add anything else too it. I'd be ok with being on just the lupron. I had a very aggressive estrogen + tumor, so want to give myself the best chance possible. It's been a long road with lots of set-backs. They don't tell you want treatment will be like after you get through all that other stuff. Thanks in advance for you reply.

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Replies to "Hi - Do you take anything other than Lupron. I was taking tamoxifen, but the side..."

I get a monthly injection of Zoladex. It is also available in a 3 month shot, but my oncologist strongly prefers the monthly dose. Maybe talk to your doc and see if you can get a monthly shot of Lupron, or switch to Zoladex. From what I understand, they contain different active drugs, but work in the same way to block the production of estrogen. You may tolerate the Zoladex better. I personally have never had the slightest problem from Zoladex. As far as the Arimidex, it is one of three AIs. I tried two that caused trigger finger and joint pain, but the third, thankfully, has been problem-free! I believe this is not uncommon, and different people tolerate different AIs better (my lucky one is exemestane). I have learned to talk to my doctor about any and everything that's on my mind regarding my treatment, and she is always more than happy to discuss things with me. They don't know what we do or don't know, or worry about, or question. A valuable tip often found in the cancer community is to be your own advocate! (Oh, and also ask if you are a candidate for Verzenio. I am at high risk of recurrence, and my doc really likes this one to help fight recurrence in certain cases. It costs a ridiculous amount of money, but the manufacturer offers a "copay card" that covers the out of pocket cost entirely. It does cause diarrhea and makes me nauseous, but in my mind, it is absolutely worth it. I don't want to look back and wish I had taken an available treatment.