Ovarian suppression question

rubyredslippers

I was told by a few doctors including a medical oncologist, that I could have ovarian suppression as a stand-alone treatment as I don’t want tamoxifen.

I saw another rude arrogant oncologist who told me I could not have ovarian suppression without tamoxifen.

Is this true

ElaineTherese

In my view, it might depend on what insurance will pay for. Ovarian suppression shots aren't cheap. My oncologist was a bit worried about what insurance would cover, so she chose the same protocol as the SOFT study (Zoladex + Aromasin). Good luck!

Spoonie77

RubyRed -- From my reading, if a person is in menopause (due to OS, or chemo induced, or naturally) then that person has many options, including AIs and Tamoxifen. Tamoxifen is for both pre and post-meno patients if my understanding is correct.

I do recall that my MO mentioned to me that medically inducing menopause PLUS an hormone med was an option, however I do not believe she said the OS itself was a stand alone treatment. From what I've read here and other places, it seems the standard of care is OS + Med.

So to answer your question in a round about way, it seems the majority receive OS + MED, but not knowing your specific details nor being a dr, I'd say that if a MO told you that OS alone could be an option I'd ask for further clarification. Never be afraid to ask questions. Perhaps your case warrants it. After all, it seems a reduction in estrogen with BC patients is the main goal, and shutting down ovaries definitely helps achieve more of that. And my MO is fond of saying, "Something is better than nothing." in regards to reducing estrogen treatment.

Best of luck.

Here is a article that may help explain -- https://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/TherapiesthatCauseEarlyMenopause.html

"Ovarian suppression combined with tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor

Some younger, premenopausal women at high risk of breast cancer recurrence may benefit from treatment with ovarian suppression plus tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor [6,76].

Ovarian suppression alone is not a standard substitute for tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor."