ZOLADEX GALS

AnnE16

Hi,

I started Zoladex shots every month in 2008. Obviously this drugs shuts down our ovaries and throws us into menopause. I didn't start gaining weight until 4 years into using this drug. Now, I look like I am pregnant. I saw a post on a different site where a woman who is using this drug for endometriosis showed a picture of before and after using this drug. She now has a pregnant looking belly as well. Does anyone using this drug for a few years have this same issue with a pregnant looking belly? Is this normal? Is this just how my body responds to menopause? I have had scans and abdominal ultrasounds. Everything is fine. I consider myself to still be fairly young even though the drugs over the years certainly make me feel older than my actual age. But this belly drives me crazy!!

Shosho27

I am really starting to wonder myself. In 2018 I lost 30 pounds and finally got to my goal weight, 1 month later I was diagnosed with ILC at 35. So needless to say my weight was no longer a priority. For about a year I was fine and gain back like 5-8 pounds, then I was put on Zoladex, Letrozal, and Lexapro and that’s when the weight really started to come back. A year and a half later and I have put back on all the weight. Now that things have settled down I am trying to lose the weight again and the scale has not moved a single pound in a month. I do not recall it being this hard to lose the weight the first time. So I am not sure if it is the drugs or me.

Moderators

Shosho27, we are so sorry for all you have been through and recognize how frustrating this must feel. Have you discussed this with your medical oncologist and prescribing doctor (e.g. for Lexapro)? Perhaps it could indeed be one of the medications, or an interaction, that is playing a role. Also, were you put into menopause during this? Don't give up, you'll get the help you need.

Please keep us posted. There is also a Wednesday weigh-in topic you may want to contribute to: Wednesday weigh in

Your Mods

AnnE16

ShoSho27,

I was 35 when diagnosed with ILC cancer as well. It is definitely the drugs because the drugs shut down all the hormones and put us into menopause. I have started exercising but I have not changed my diet like I did before. And I know that is what I need to do but as long as we are staying at home right now I am enjoying a few glasses of wine and comfort food! Good luck on your weight loss!