Zoladex injections vs. ovary removal

I had started Lupron (similar to Zoladex) injections back in January. My onc's plan was the same as yours, to start an AI in 3 months. Unfortunately, my estrogen levels didn't drop enough for him and I ended up needing surgery to remove my ovaries. My first post-op appointment is tomorrow. I had a blood draw last week to check my levels, so I assume if they are where my onc wants them I will be staring on Arimidex.

I chose to start with Lupron injections because I didn't really want another surgery, even a simple one like an ooph. Unfortunately due to severe endometriosis and adhesions, my simple ooph ended up being an open incision total hyster. I'm just thankful to have it behind me and moving forward with treatment.

There's really no right or wrong way to go about shutting your ovaries down. Just do what feels right for yourself/family/situation. Best of luck!

I am on Lupron a shot every three months. We will do this for at least two years. However, I chose to stay on tamoxifen since I was tolerating it really well.

My OB and my MO were adamant that I keep my ovaries because of their protective benefits. So in they stayed.

I've been on Arimidex and zoladex (monthly injections) for 6 months now. I'm 35 years old abd have no children and would like to have them in future, so I didn't even consider ovary removal. Plus I didn't want my body to undergo another operation, so I'm quite happy with the current arrangement. My oncologist did say that 3 monthly zoladex injections are available as opposed to monthly but at a cost.

I'm 52, and ER+ PR+ HER2+. I've been on Tamoxifen since January and completed my chemo treatments earlier this month. My Estradiol has been very high. Had a TVUS last month and it found a cyst on my ovary - possible cause of my high number. I will have a another TVUS at the end of Sept to check the cyst. My MO wants me to start Lupron shots to shut down my ovaries, but if that doesn't work, then he suggests having them removed. I just had my port removed on Friday and I really don't want to have another surgery. I haven't had any SE's from Tamoxifen, unless joint pain in my fingers is.

What it's like to be on Lupron, and any SE's I need to be aware of? Also what do I need to know before I say yes to having my ovaries removed.

Anyone doing the injections and staying on Tamoxifen rather than switching to an A.I.? My doctor wants me to stick with tamoxifen but the SOFT trial indicates the AI drugs are more effective

Wildtulip,

No Zometa yet, though that may change after my next dexascan. At my baseline dexascan, I was slightly osteopenic. Since then, I've been dutifully exercising and taking my calcium supplements. I should get my dexascan within the calendar year.

Kathy, I'm on Lupron but take Tamoxifen. My MO preferred that combo for me because of the bone loss issues with AIs.

Logang, I've tolerated the Lupron shots pretty well. (I'm 2 years into the shots) It has worsened my hot flashes and gives me mild nausea for about 24 hours after the injection. But overall I would say it's not bad. I do feel for you having to drive 1.5 hours every month for the shot though, that would be really inconvenient. Is it possible for your gynecologist to give the shots? I think I've heard of gyn. working with MOs on that. Ultimately though, whether your do the shots or surgery there's really no right or wrong choice--I don't believe any studies have shown one to be superior to the other as far as recurrence. Have you discussed with your MO why she is recommending this course for you? I felt good going the Lupron/Tamoxifen route after discussing with my MO why she wanted *me* to do that combo of treatment specifically.

Tresjoli2...are you sticking with tamoxifen or switching to an A.I.