Zoladex for post meno? So confused

Anonymous

Zoladex for post meno? So confused

canadaliz

Hello All!

In Jan 2018 I was diagnosed with my first breast cancer/ IDC, 2cm, 0/4 nodes, ER+ PR+ Her2- Onco 17, Luminal A and treatment was lumpectomy and 22 radiation with Tamoxifen.

I went in last week for my regular follow up mammogram and they found a 'suspicious' area in my other breast. So then an ultrasound and stereotactic biopsy wherein they implanted a surgical marker.

Now, complicating all of this, Tamoxifen pushed me into end stage liver failure requiring a transplant. I have stage 4 cirrhosis. It is a rare complication and I'm the lucky one. It occurs most often when Tamoxifen is introduced to other existing conditions resulting in the perfect storm. Ultimately I should have never been given TM. I have metabolic syndrome ( type 2 diabetic, class 2 obese, high cholesterol, history of fatty liver.) TM is a known hepatotoxic drug that can cause fatty liver and I was not even monitored. If introduced to a person with metabolic syndrome it can accelerate the person to the finish line (cirrhosis). As I became sicker and sicker my medical Onco just said keep taking it. Finally my liver gave out and I was in hospital fighting for my life. I have now lost 63lbs (6ft tall/196lbs) and with strict diet management, fluid restriction and medication my blood values are near normal but I still need a transplant despite my liver compensating fairly well for now. The irony is I have to be cancer free for 5 years to have a transplant but my liver is projected to last 2 years before complete failure. Thankfully my son is a match. (not eligible for a cadaver liver as I have a history of cancer but they will give an alcoholic a liver knowing that 71% return to drinking within 6 months of transplant--I don't drink alcohol.

Anyway, I am waiting on my second primary cancer results--find out on the 19th November but, as I can't have TM my Med Oncologist wants me to have Zoladex implants for 12 months to suppress estrogen and start Letrozole next month. I am confirmed postmenopausal with a blood test. My head is spinning! As far as I can see Zoladex is for PRE-menopausal women.

Can anyone help?

My liver aside: have any post menopausal women been prescribed Zoladex implants?

also which is better Letrozole or Arimidex?

Thank you, Liz in Toronto.

forgot to say, I'm 55!

Spoonie77

Hi again Liz, we meet again.

Have you found any more about the Zoladex implants and your AI options?

I'm sorry to hear that you were awaiting news about a second primary cancer. What was the news if you care to share?

You've been through so much and I know how bone-weary tired you are. You're not alone. My fingers are crossed for you that you've found out some new info and are a little bit closer to beating cancer again.

Many hugs sent your way.