(Monday, February 05, 2007) Editing this post a bit to include my experience because I’m noticing that people aren’t really reading my Related Posts at the end. Let me make a couple of points first.
Note: Please realize that you are online. By its nature, the Internet will draw women having problems with fibroids and looking for answers. Women with great Lupron treatment experiences probably aren’t posting about it online. I discovered this when looking for information several months ago. I was alarmed by the disproportionate number of negative Lupron experiences and decided to start a blog with a more balanced perspective. Hopefully, I’ve come close to that.
Second point. I have a post about the bell curve. (Actually, there are a few women on the site that mention it.) A bell curve is a very good way to think about any fibroid treatment. Some women will land on one end of the curve or the other but MOST will fall in the middle right under the bell. MOST women who take Lupron will benefit from it. MOST will have limited side effects.
Here’s my experience.
From the post that describes my first month on Lupron:
*Recap: Had a period (7 days) with clots and cramps about 2 weeks after the injection. Continued to spot every day afterward. Occasional headaches (possibly from anemia).
*Recap: Passed huge clots without cramps the day of the injection. Continued to spot every day. Passed smaller clots without cramps on several occasions. Night sweats without the sweat. Just the heat.
*Recap: Continued to spot every day. Passed tiny clots with cramps on several occasions. Hot flashes. No sweat but yes, they were hot!
So yes, when given this choice between:
- bleeding profusely, becoming more anemic, and eventually saying okay to a blood transfusion or
- bleeding some, having a few hot flashes, and no longer continuously feeling faint,
I weighed the benefits (preparation for surgery) against the risks (side effects), squared it with my mind, body, and spirit and picked #2! Three months of Lupron. No regrets.
I’ll also include the 8-page Patient Information Report for the 3.75 mg monthly injection. It’s a PDF file so you need Adobe Reader to view it.
Now, back to the original post…
One of the visitors to this site is about to start Lupron shots for 3 months. Since there have been a couple of comments about injections, continued bleeding, and side effects, I decided to create a thread to stick in the Forum. You can follow the details of my personal experience (hot flashes, night sweats, etc.) as well as read other information in the Related Posts at the end but I will include a short timeline:
1st Lupron Shot – middle of February
Last multiple day period – end of February
2nd Lupron Shot – middle of March (continued spotting/bleeding)
Last Lupron Shot – middle of April (continued spotting/bleeding)
Spotting/bleeding finally stopped – end of May
Next multiple day period – end of June
Time between my last Lupron shot and my period = 10 weeks
Time between my “periods” while on Lupron = 4 months
Excerpts from visitor posts: (Click the link to view the entire comment.)
Saragail: I’ve just completed my third round of Lupron. It’s been about 1 month and 2 weeks since my last shot, yet I haven’t started my period.
C.: I took Lupron 4 years ago and am currently searching for information about it. I still suffer memory problems from my 6 months on Lupron.
nanci: Had first lupron shot on 6/17 after having a few months of heavy periods and clotting. also had the feeling of a very full stomach. although the bleeding has basicallly stopped(still have very slight bleeding)
My advice:
Have a clear understanding in your mind about why you are taking it. Know that the treatment can be beneficial but is not perfect. Make sure you have a support system that allows you to contact a health care professional with your questions.
If you have thoughts, questions, or a Lupron experience, please leave a comment.
[Edited to add: I created another post that will (hopefully) shed more light on GnRH agonists and the side effects of this drug class: Tell me about Lupron, Synarel, and Zoladex (gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists) ]
——————–
Related Posts: (Yep, spent much time writing about my Lupron experience.)
Life under the bell curve
What the heck is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist?
Get support from nurses during your Lupron treatment
Deciding on my Lupron Depot injection dosage
That first Lupron injection in February
My second Lupron injection in March
The very last Lupron injection in April
Lupron is neither heaven nor hell
Iron pills, Lupron injections, and the return of little Miss Perky
July 28, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Thanks Amy. The recovery time and pain of the myo is not so much a concern as the high possibility of the doctor having to perform a hyster once the surgery begins. My biggest fibroid is about 12 cm and it’s in the lining of my uterus. I look about 4 months pregnant. There may be too much bleeding from removing the fibroid which would result in a hyster to stop it.
Dr. John Lipman would be the UFE specialist. He’s done over 2000 UFE procedures.
I really appreciate your concern…everyone’s concern…thank you so much!
July 30, 2009 at 8:14 pm
Since I’ve been reading this website, I thought I should contribute with my experience. I started birth control pills in late ’06 and began bleeding constantly (more or less daily with frequent heavy bleeding and clotting.) Despite many brand/dosage changes, it didn’t stop so my Gyn did an ultrasound and diagnosed me with a small fibroid. She recommended surgery but I was worried about the risks since I want to preserve my fertility and held off. Although she (and every gyn since) has insisted it wasn’t related to the pills, once I stopped the pills, I began regular (~5 days, 1 month) but heavy periods which seemed manageable. That was until last winter when I started feeling tired and ill all the time. My periods were getting heavier, longer and more frequent. I went to donate blood and was told I was severely anemic. I went to a new doctor (I moved) and she said I was borderline for a blood transfusion. She tested and this time, the fibroid was large (14 cm?) and pushing out my uterus slightly. She suggested a hysterectomy and I jolted so she said she could try a hysteroscopic myomectomy but did think she could remove it with one surgery. It sounded risky and I researched online and decided to try lupron for 3 months to see if it would help. (The gyn doesn’t think it will and seems to think I am unwise for putting off the surgery for 3 months.) I had my 1st lupron shot in mid May and just had my 3rd and last a couple of weeks ago. I don’t know if the fibroid has shrunk since I didn’t notice it before. I started bleeding about 2 weeks after my 1st shot and have had heavy bleeding/clotting or spotting pretty much ever since. When I call the gyn or nurse about the bleeding, the basic answer I get is that she doesn’t think the hormone therapy (the lupron) will help me and I just need the surgery. I have horrible hot flashes and night sweats which are hard to explain in meetings at work since I’m young! I’ve lost a ridiculous amount of weight (I was slim before and lost 13% of my body weight), I assume from the sweating and I’ve gone down a cup size (which I don’t know if it’s just from the weight lost or the lack of estrogen.) My company had a free health check up and my BMI was 18.6 and my body fat was 16.4%! I am feeling energetic and overall pretty good. I’m taking iron but I haven’t had my iron checked since. Surgery is scheduled in 3 weeks (~1 month after my 3rd lupron shot) so I’ll see. I’m terrified about complications but am trying not to freak out too much. Will try to remember to update after.
April 11, 2010 at 9:27 pm
hi im so glad i came across your story ive been reading pretty bad stuff about lupron and beleave it or not yours ant to bad i hope i can say down the road that it was all worth it for me as well just had my first shot 2 weeks ago and im a lil worried of whats to come good luck to you god bless bfn
August 4, 2009 at 11:04 pm
Well, I just had my third Lupron shot today and was told I may have to have another one. My surgery is scheduled on August 24!!. The surgeon did an exam to get a feel of the size of the fibroids, but could not get a good idea of the size due to a layer of fat on my abdomen!!! How embarrassing to be told in not so many words that you are fat by your doctor!!!
Anyway, he thinks I may be bleeding because the fibroid is right by the cavity of the uterus. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have an explanation as to why I want to fall asleep at work; according to my blood test, my iron levels are fine. I’m still taking Aygesten every day. My main concern is that I will not have a lap myomectomy done. An MRI is scheduled next week; hopefully all is well.
August 6, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Last Friday, my doctor decided to give me a prescription for Ambien (tiny 5mg since I’m small) and norethindrone. They seem to be helping me sleep and have completely stopped the spotting. She declined to do another ultrasound or MRI so no idea if the fibroid is smaller. I wonder if the norethindrone is having a negative effect on the fibroid…I could certainly suffer through it for a few more weeks. She doesn’t seem to think it will hurt, though.
August 13, 2009 at 10:25 am
Has anyone noticed any blotting or gaining weight around the midsection since on lupron? i’m going into my thinrd month and ive noticd i have this “pooch” all the sudden…i’m assuming my fibroids are shrinking but that wouldn’t make me gain weight right? any thoughts?
August 13, 2009 at 11:54 am
Mia,
Yes,I did have weight gain while taking the Lupron shots,my doctor told me that it was a side effect. After my first shot the fibroids that I had did not shrink anymore. I had a total of 6 shots and ended up having a hysterectomy. I wish I had the hysterectomy sooner. I had lots of side effects with the Lupron, the last 2 months of taking it was terrible. Good luck!.
February 4, 2010 at 2:45 pm
will you tell me about your exact side effects and troubles coming off the lupron and how you handled your hysterectomy and do you have any side effects from it? i took lupron for 2 years my last shot was 7 moths ago i have had 2 somewhat peroids since. i am still having side effects from the lupron. they seem to be worse the week after i get of my peroid.? I am very scared to have the hysterectomy because i hav yet to feel anywhere near normal since the lupron. any info would be great. thank you so much.
August 13, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Hi Kathy!
Thannks thats good to know guess i will start watching my intake in hopes of controlling some of this i think i gained 10 pounds but it appears mostly in my stomach hips and thighs…i also haven’t been eating really great recently… did you get your 6 shots back to back?
August 13, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Ok, ladies, I took my last 3 mth dose of Lupron on Jan. 28, 2009.
My period has not been on since. About a week ago, I started to notice a clear discharge. Is that a sign that my period will resume in a few days? I sure hope so because I can’t stand the side effects of Lupron!!
Thanks!
August 13, 2009 at 2:30 pm
I had my last 3 mos dose of Lupron on 2/13/09 and still have yet to get my period as well. My doctor said if it doesn’t start by the end of Aug to come see him.
August 13, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Hi Mia,
No, my shots were not back to back. I had 4 then surgery,one month after surgery started on it again,the following month made the 6th one. The last two after surgery were for endometriosis which was found when I had the hysterectomy. I too gained 10-12 pounds but I did watch what I ate. My metabolism slowed down while taking the shots. I suffered from panic attacks from the shots,especially the last two shots. With my body being thrown into menopause so fast is what caused the attacks,which that’s what the Lupron does. It’s been almost a year since the surgery and I am now just starting to feel like a person again. Thank God for health food stores!! They have me on several supplements that has helped me get my body back to where it needs to be. It’s been a long recovery. I guess I never thought it would take so long to get the Lupron out of my system. I did a 14 day fast two months after surgery to help get the Lupron out of my system. The doctor said it would take about 90 days for it to be all gone after the last shot. I haven’t heard of to many ladies having the issues that I have had with the Lupron. Maybe it depends on how many you take and I did have to have abdominal hysterectomy. The endometriosis was attached to my bowel which made the surgery take more of a toll on my body.I had a 10 week recovery period. I was really disappointed after taking the shots and putting my body through all the mess and realize that my fibroids did not shrink anymore after the first shot. The testing I had showed that the fibroids went form 18cm to 16cm before surgery. I wish ya the best and a much better experience than I had.
August 13, 2009 at 3:51 pm
Thanks Kathy, I had 2 lupron shots last year and had a significant decrease in my fibroids. Mine are a tad smaller the largest is 6cm and its outside of my uterus…my lupron shots are not for surg but so my iron levels can go back up
( I was severely anemic at my last check up) and i can have an oppurtunity to TTC ( i have no children) prior to my doc doing a myeo my doc said that i have to try first because as research and these boards have proved it is highly likely to have a sucessful pregnancy with the fibroids in. if i can’t get pregnant in the 6 months following the lupron shot then i will need to have surg…. what type of herbal products did you use to get the lupron out of your system?
August 14, 2009 at 9:14 am
Hi Mia,
I did a 14 day cleanse of my body. I purchased a cleansing kit from the health food store. For 14 days I ate nothing but raw veggies,steamed veggies,drank a protein shake twice a day,ate whole grain pasta,veggie juice,green tea and lots and lots of water. No sugar,starch, dairy,junk food ect. Twice a day I would take the cleansing supplements,morning and evening. It cleansed my liver,bowels,ect. I plan on doing the cleansing once a year,it gets rid of all the junk in our systems. The only side effect is you may feel tried after the first few days of the cleansing. It’s getting rid of all the unwanted stuff. I would highly recommend you do some kind of cleansing before you try to get pregnant. You can never be to safe when it comes to your unborn child. When I told my doctor that I was doing the cleansing he thought it was a very good thing to do. I too had a very hard time keeping my blood level up. My lowest was a 7,I was so tried all the time! I took iron that the doctor recommended but what really helped me was something called Hematinic that I purchased at the health food store. It raised my levels a lot faster than the iron pills did and with no constipation or intestinal irritation . It’s a form of chelated iron. I hope this info has help ya!
August 14, 2009 at 10:10 am
Kathy,
Thanks so much for the info I was just wondering what I could take instead of the iron pills they are getting on my nerves because I’m constantly constipated! I will try to see if I can find that pill did you get it at one of the health chains, like GNC or vitamin world/Shoppe or a private retailer?
I’m going to try and find it this weekend! I will also look for one of the 14 day cleanses I’ve seen those in the store as well, how soon after the shot did you start your cleanse? A few weeks after last shot or after your ten weeks healing from surg? I know it takes 3-4 months after the last shot for lupron to start wearing off…So if my last (3 month) shot is in December. Then the by the end of March the lupron would be out my system and this is when I’m supposed to TTC. So would I cleanse in Dec or March?
You have been a huge help! Thank you, Thank you!
August 15, 2009 at 10:05 am
Hi Mia,
I would cleanse 1 month after your last shot,because you don’t want to cleanse the same month that you have the last shot. You want all the benefits from the shot. I purchased the Hematinic Formula from a local heath food store. Found out later that you can go on line and get it,the maker of it is Solgar. I didn’t cleanse until about 12 weeks after surgery. I had a lot of stomach issues brought on from the anesthesia it makes me deathly sick. So, I had to wait until I could eat without getting an upset stomach. Make sure you get a good cleanser. There are a lot of cheap ones out there that do not do a good job. You’ll pay between $25.-$35.00 for a good one. Where ever you purchase the cleanser at ,tell them that you want a Whole Body Cleanser. Some only clean the liver. I am happy that I was able to help ya!! Good luck.
September 19, 2009 at 8:59 pm
YAY!!!
FYI I contacted WordPress and they were able to fix the blog!!!
I’ve asked if it was an actual malfunction or the domain mapping wasn’t paid up or whatever…. and will continue to follow through on this is just in case.
I really hope the whole thing is working again and all the regulars come back!
(for those who get ALL the comments emailed to them, sorry for all the repeat posts, but I want the message to get through to everyone!)
October 26, 2009 at 2:30 am
Hi everyone or anyone,
I’m 28 and just had my first Lupron shot 10/16/09. So far the only side effects I’ve experience are the sweats, headaches, and back pain. But I’m unsure if its side affects from the shot or from me being severely anemic. My last blood test say my hemoglobin was at 8.6 which was up from the 8.1 it was early in the summer. I guess its a “wait and see” on any other major side effects and to see if it helps to increase my iron levels before my doc schedules surgery. As of right now i just want the fibroids out . I hate being tired, sick and in pain all the time. And my fibroids are only 5.5cm and smaller so I’m unsure of why I needed the lupron?
October 26, 2009 at 12:31 pm
From what my doctor told me, the smaller the better for removing. I know mine was a little bigger but located near a artery and the doctor wanted to limit the bleeding when he removed it and so that is why I was on Lupron. I did the one shot every three months and it did shrink it but I did have side effects similar to yours.
October 27, 2009 at 12:42 am
I just finished 6 months of Lupron therapy for my endometriosis. The pain is much better with the injections. Due to my travel schedule, I was a few weeks late on one of my injections and the pain was almost double the pre-Lupron Injections, or atleast that was my perception, it felt really bad.
I am not on the pill, but have an IUD. The frequency of my migrains has changed extremely since I got off the pill, however the pill would help control my endo better and I wouldnt suffer the consequences of the Lupron. I have gained a lot of weight since my first injection, almost 30 pounds.
So, rather than continue the Lupron injections, i have opted for surgical removal of the inflicted ovary…. I will keep you all posted, my surgery is next month
November 9, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Hi everyone – just thought I’d share my experience of Lupron as it’s been mostly positive and I read so so many negative stories before i had the injections (I scared myself crapless before deciding to go with the injections anway).
I’ve had three of the one-month shots, except my drug is called Lucrin. Same drug, different name where I live. I had barely any shrinkage in the first two months and was pretty gutted, but three weeks later i had another scan and the fibroid had shrunk from around 10cm at the largest dimension, to around 8.cm. Taking into account that the other two measurements had some shrinkage too, that works out at about 40% less volume, which is awesome as far as I’m concerned.
I haven’t had any of the moodiness or loss of sex drive I was worried about. The main symptom has been some crazy hot flashes throughout the day and night, which are annoying but easy to cope with as they only last a few minutes. I also have some muscle aches, particularly in my legs when I stand up after sitting down for a while, but that may not be related to the shots.
Other than that it’s all been good and i may be able to have a laparoscopic myomectomy next week, rather than the big open abdominal myomectomy. I won’t actually find out which I’ve had until I wake up, so please keep your fingers crossed for me ladies.
I hope all goes well with you if you’re taking Lupron, please keep posting your experiences.
April 23, 2010 at 10:44 am
CCinSing, thank you for this positive post. Out of understandable frustration, we read many post from those of which have experienced more negative side effects. Those of which have had a more positive experience may not think much on the matter. However, hearing both sides reminds us that we are not alone, and, all our experiences will be different because we are all uniquely made.
For a heavy and prolonged menstrual cycle that developed due to a Fibroid about 13 cm, I was given my first injection of Depo Lupron on 2/17/1 0. A Hysterectomy might have been my first option, but my Dr. said I was too anemic and would likely need a blood transfusion if I did.
I searched everywhere and online, and was near scared to proceed. However, being positive, cautious, and prayerful, I went on and got the shot.
Out of the many various side effects, I can report hot flashes, infrequently occuring pain in my pelvic area, stiffening in my legs, spotting to light bleeding at week 7. On the other hand, I have a greater libido, and, decreased apetite resulting in weight loss.
I have an appointment today for an ultrasound because of the pelvic pain. My journey is still in progress, and I’ll keep hoping, praying, and believing for the best. Putting “Mind over Matter is spiritual, and it works. I hope the best for all of you.
November 18, 2009 at 2:00 am
Hi Everyone,
Just a quick update. I’m going in on Friday for my 2nd lupron shot. I’m unsure if I’m going to get it or not because I don’t seem to be reaping any of the benefits of it. I took the shot in hopes of stoping the heavy bleeding and spotting. And since the shot I have been doing nothing but spotting and I don’t think that helping any with my anemia. So we’ll see what happens.
November 29, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Hi,
First, I got my shot on Monday instead of Friday b/c they forgot to order it at the doctors office. But I did talk to my doctor about whether or not I should continue it and it was a joint decision to take the 2nd shot, stop taking BC pill to see if my blood pressure goes down (150/90 extremely bad), and see how my blood test comes back as. So since Monday afternoon after getting my shot my spotting turned into bleeding and on Wednesday when I got my blood pressure checked again it was 144/100. And I feel horrible. Not sure if its the shot or just my body breaking down. lol..eventhough I’m only 29. So I’m going to see if I can work the week and just go to my reg. gyn appt on Friday when I have my ultrasound to voice all my worries and concerns. Not sure though because its Sunday and still bleeding with clots and feeling sick.
Oh if anyones wondering…not on any heavy medicine other than the Lupron shot. otherwise its my nasty iron pills, folic acid, vitamin c, and a multivitamin…so the high blood pressure issue might just be that I have high blood pressure. It just decided to show its ugly head while all these other things are going on in my body.
December 2, 2009 at 7:02 am
Finding this site has been a comfort…if for nothing other than having a place to “vent”. I unfortunately have a rareness to my story, and read through to find a similar occurrence, but no luck there. I was diagnosed with fibroids 6 years ago, but because I did not have insurance, I didn’t do anything about it other than an attempt at birth control, which my body did not like! I feel as if I am a different case for a few reasons – One, I dislike being born a female, I identify as “internally transgendered” (my own words), as I have personally chosen not to take testosterone shots bc of side-effects. Two – I can’t get rid of my female parts soon enough.
I have recently saved enough money to pay for my treatment of fibroids and began seeing a doctor last month. My hemoglobin levels were at 6, and after sooo many years of fighting fatigue, I can’t get this taken care of fast enough.
Although I have an abdomen surrounded by fibroids, I continued to have a normal, but very heavy period – normal bc it came on time every month, but wouldn’t last longer than 5 days – just really heavy.
I was given a Lupron shot on October 28th and regret it terribly! I also had a blood transfusion on November 17th, which is now a waste as I have been bleeding for 19 days. I wish I would have had the opportunity to read up and then deny the Lupron, but I didn’t bc my Doc sent me quickly bc he was worried. Things went to extreme hell after the shot, and pretty quickly. At first I was very nauseas, then I practically had an emotional breakdown, and now I am severely depressed (at times actually praying I die during my upcoming scheduled hysto on December 18th). I am also experiencing major hot flashes followed by severe freezing. I started my period on November 9th and haven’t stopped (23 days now). I am scheduled for another Lupron shot on December 8th, but will refuse it.
Like I said, I am scheduled for a uterine hysto on December 18th and have mixed emotions about it (not about having my uterus taken out – I would have been satisfied not being born with one in the first place), but with being down for 6 weeks having to rely on someone to help me out and not being able to be as active or work (self-employed). As I stated earlier, I am deeply depressed and have to fight through it hour by hour. I will be telling my Doc I want to sign a DNR – that’s prob 50% depression and 50% rebellion thinking there.
I just needed to vent somewhere bc I’m not the type who usually talks to people, but I’m also a little exhausted from holding it all in.
I have also noticed I rarely want to leave the house – I haven’t gone anywhere in over 2 weeks, and have only eaten 3 times within that time as well.
Here’s to a successful surgery – one outcome or another.
Thank you for being here. I wish the best to all of you.
July 22, 2010 at 11:32 pm
How did your surgery go? I am going through exactly what you are and am having surgery in a week and a half. I never want to leave either – I am off work because it is summer (teacher assistant) and really down and sad and STILL bleeding this is week 5 of bleeding – or is it 6 – had that lupron shot and taking progesterone and tired – heart palpitations – big fat stomach – really sucks I too wish I was never even born with a uterus or at least after my second baby was born I wish they took it out right then!!! Hope all is well with you
December 2, 2009 at 7:20 am
My apologies for the conflicting days – another side-effect being an inability to focus and calculate things correctly/missing mistakes. I am a tech geek and this fogginess doesn’t make for good business with my clientele.
January 16, 2010 at 11:13 pm
My experience with Lupron, the satanic drug:
Dr. recommended Lupron because I had a 22cm Ovarian cyst and fibroids. I had had many abdominal surgeries in the past, Gastric Bypass, Abdominalplasty, gall bladder removed, and appendix removed, and then in ’09, 2 reconstructive surgeries to the gastric bypass. So dr didnt want to operate if he didnt have to. Lupron was administered in 2-3 month intervals. The first was during the summer of ’09, and the second was November’09. So it is just now wearing off, I think. In the first 3 months, I noticed fatigue, sleepless nights, night sweats and back pain. I started having a heavy period one month after injection, and went for an ultrasound to find out cyst was bleeding into my ovary so dr put me on Norethindrone & Darvocet for back pain that was caused from bleeding cyst. Sweats continued, as well as increasing fatigue, sleeping 14 hours a day, and having no energy to do anything. Craving salt & junk, went from 170 to current weight of 208, of course, 6 yrs ago I was 345, so that is still down from that, but I am very concerned about any weight gain. Dr said that weight gain wasn’t normal, but it seems like its a normal side effect from most that have posted about the drug. I am 35, and ttc for a first child, my concern or fear is that I will not succeed in becoming pregnant, or ever feeling back to normal. I have also noticed since being on this drug that I have went from being outgoing and wanting to always go places and do things to preferring to lie in bed, sleep or watch tv. Desire for sex is just so-so, take it or leave it, I was a nympho before this LOL.
Will things get back to normal? Whats the next step after this? I am worried and scared and want nothing more than to carry a child and become a mother.
Hope someone can give me some hope here!!
January 23, 2010 at 5:03 am
I smith — 22cm cyst! wow…I just pulled out a ruler and that is big! are you feeling any better? did the doc do a scan to see if the cyst and fibroids have gone down? I am not surprised to hear how you’re feeling with something that big inside of you…. is surgery really out of the question if they haven’t gone down? keep pushing your doctor, ask questions and take it a day at a time. Take care.
January 25, 2010 at 8:36 am
had myfirst lupron shot on Nov 9,2009. It was a 3 month shot for endomitriousis. That was discovered after laproscopic surgery. got it 2 weeks after surgery. finally started to feel better at begining of Dec. But by Christmas mypains were coming back and got worse with each passing day. Just got my 2nd shot early after finally breaking down and going back to Dr. on Jan 22. I have had hot flashes, cold flashes, Extreme mood swings, all i want to do is sleep, and extreme migrains that can last up to aweeek since starting Lupron. go back onThursday for another ultrsound. Thinks I have another cyst on my overy and possibleyy more fibroids. I had Novasure done in March to get rid of the man fibroidsI had then. I am hoping this works. Tired of being in pain constantly, and not being able to thingswith my children that i should be cuz i am to tired or to sick. I have lost 10 lbs. and counting cause I have no appitite at all.
February 23, 2010 at 4:27 pm
I can totally understand what everyone is saying on here…I was told I had fibroids for years then was told now I don’t…I have gone to more doc than I can think of and each one says something different. I a lapro sugery for endo about 2 years ago and also had novasure done at the same time. It took a while to feel normal again but once my swelling went down I felt good almost pain free and my weight was at the lowest it has ever been…then all of a sudden symptoms came back and seemed to be worse…a new doc said to try this Lupron shot well I have had 4 injections and I can’t take it anymore…basically you trade one symptom for another when taking this shot. You may have been in pain bloated etc. well now you have night and day sweats, memory loss, loss of a desire to do anything, weight gain…that sounds like is hard to get rid of, don’t want to get out of bed and that’s hard when you work and have 3 kids!!! The funny thing is a still have pain maybe not as bad but the back pain has never gone away and is horrible so really I feel like I just tortured myself for know reason…I guess I felt like I had to try it and I didn’t realize how badly it messes with your mind and energy. I am just wondering if I stop the injections how long does it take until I can get the weight off and feel normal again. I am going back to doc at the end of the month to see about another lap surgery…I just don’t think I am ready for a full hysto because they want to take both my ovaries because the endo is on my ovaries, uterus and bladder I think that will put me in menopause like the Lupron shot…anyways I just had to get that out because no one around is going thru this and they just don’t understand. thanks
February 4, 2010 at 7:05 pm
This is an update to my post on December 2nd, 2009.
I am ecstatic to announce that it has been 7 weeks since my hysterectomy and things are normal!! I hesitate to say “normal again”, because I don’t think that anything was really ever that normal. I lived with Uterine Fibroids for so long, I think I just forgot how it felt to be without them.
The good news is, the Lupron shot finally wore off for me about the 2nd week after my surgery. I could tell because my mood lifted, my night sweats stopped and I felt emotionally capable of living life. They tried to give me another one before I went in to surgery and I took a firm stance and told them they’d have to kill me to inject that poison into me again.
I know that many of you are trying everything you can to avoid a hysterectomy because you would like children in the future, but let me just say that if you are not concerned with that – GO FOR THE SURGERY. I have a horizontal scar – the hardest part was not being able to wear jeans for 5 weeks. You can have a hysterectomy laproscopically, but my Uterus was so enlarged, they had no choice but to cut me wide. I have a picture of my Uterus and it’s HUGE. Weighed in at 13lbs, although I don’t remember the dimensions.
Anyway. I just wanted to do a follow-up. Hopefully I have helped someone.
I hope you all get what you need. Never let your Doctor run YOUR life, and here’s to everyone’s future!
Cheers!
Set
April 23, 2010 at 10:57 am
Set, how wonderful it is to hear your good report!! Although my side effects have been minimal, I’ve been thinking about going ahead with the Hysterectomy before taking the 2nd dosage of Lupron.
Your last bit of advice about not letting our Doctor run our lives is absolutely correct!
July 22, 2010 at 11:34 pm
THANK YOU I read further and found you did have the surgery and YES you helped me so thank you THANK YOU so much you have no idea how happy I am right now I am actually crying but in a good way – another thing since the shot CRYING non stop OMG and I was down to spotting and then today BOOM bleeding heavy again. I can’t wait for August 2 it is going to be my favorite day now and I will celebrate it every year from now on too!!!!!!!
February 14, 2010 at 12:06 pm
only received one 3 month shot depo. i hate life and feel like a robot. i have no enjoyment. waiting for this to leave my system
April 23, 2010 at 11:04 am
Tracy, I don’t know you personally, but I understand your frustrations. This injection may have brought on depression in your life. YÖUR life is invaluable and precious, and I believe it is the shot of Depo Lupron you hate. This is a man made drug, so it cannot be perfect.
I pray the best for you, and encourage you to put “Mind over Matter.
March 15, 2010 at 2:57 am
Holly, you are absolutely correct, it shows that you’re an authority on the subject. I admire someone that takes the pride you have and with your projecton of information. oSo when i actually do sit down to read material, I appreciate well written and organized blogs like this one. I have it bookmarked and will be back. Thanks.
March 24, 2010 at 1:58 pm
I am in my early 30s with no kids. I was diagnose with fibroids in April 2009. My doctor was looking for ways to preserve my fertility. I received my first lupron shot December 24, 2009. I have received 2 shots since the initial treatment. My side effects are hot flashes, night sweats, body acne, and I get really thirsty. I also have discomfort during sex. I think I was little emotional at the beginning. But, for the most part I stayed positive. I will provide an update, sometime in May or June about the size of my fibroids.
My last shot is on March 29, 2010. I am excited about my last shot, because I want to start working out again.
April 6, 2010 at 8:16 am
Remember, when it comes to losing abdominal fat, you have to adopt a holistic, whole-body approach – there are absolutely no shortcuts. A surgical shortcut like liposuction also becomes meaningless if you are not going to control to your diet, because removing fat cells from the abdomen by liposuction will lead to excess fat storage elsewhere – perhaps under the chin or on knees or shoulders – where it may look even worse than at the abdomen.
April 23, 2010 at 1:13 pm
Hoping to exchange some summer time recipes. I just prepared this one last night for an app . it was an experiment that turned out extreamly good: JICIMA FRUIT SALAD…this is savory and refreshing…perfect for summer!!!Ingredients 1/2 tbsp ginger, peeled & grated . 6 c baby spinach . 2 tbsps rice wine vinegar . Dressing .1 tbsp yellow miso (soybean paste) .1 tbsp water .1 tsp canola oil . 1/2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce .2 tbsps sesame seeds . 1/2 c red onions, thinly sliced . 1/2 tsp dark sesame oil . 1/2 tbsp sugar 1 c tangerines, sectioned (substitue oranges) .1 tbsp green onions, sliced finely . 6 c jicama, peeled & cut into strips. Directions Step #1 Combine water, vinegar & miso, whisk until smooth. Step #2 Add remaining dressing ingredients to mix, then set aside.Step #3 Combine jicama, spinach, tangerine & red onion. Step #4 Pour dressing over salad, & toss to mix, sprinkle with sesame seeds.Step #5 serving size in 1 1/4 c. Eat well and be well
April 27, 2010 at 2:19 pm
Hello,
I have been struggling with Crohn’s Disease and Chronic Acute Pancreatitis for ten years now. I had surgery on my Pancreas in June 2008 and I had a subsequent miscarriage the following day. I had to have a D&C. I had my tubes tied in September 2008 where the doctor discovered endo. He started me on DepoProvera which seemed to help some until August 2009; where I began heavy bleeding and horrible pain again. I started Lupron in September and have had 3 more injections (2 three month and 1 one month) since with my last being April 6th. I have hot flashes, memory loss, 40 lb weight gain, depression, panic attacks etc. My doc refuses to operate for fear that my pancreas will become infected and I will die. I have been bleeding heavily for 2 days now and am in so much pain I can’t even get out of bed (hard to do with 5 children). He’s doing a transvaginal ultrasound tomorrow morning. I can’t take much more. I’m so tired of being fat, tired, and sick; and it doesn’t seem like there is anything I can do about it except to just deal with it. I just don’t think I can do this much more
April 27, 2010 at 2:21 pm
…sorry…I just reread what I wrote and I realize how terribly negative I’m being. I just want to feel good is all. I have a lot to live for.
April 27, 2010 at 2:52 pm
Hello Laura, I don’t think you were being a negative person. You were simply keeping it real, and venting as we all will do at some time and place.
My prayers go up for you that you will get better, and that you will find relief from these problems you’ve been dealing with. It is obvious to me that you are tough, but still, God will not allow more to be put on you than you can bear. You have to trust those words.
Pray and ask God for wisdom and direction. It might be that for you, an operation is the way to go. Although we come to trust our doctors, we need to be sure that to trust our instincts. Maybe a 2nd opinion will be good? Do a little research on the matter.
April 27, 2010 at 4:45 pm
I am going to have a supracervical hysterectomy on May 4, 2010 with a vertical abdominal procedure, due to how large the fibroid is. I am very nervous and scared about how much pain I will be in after this procedure, as well as when I will be able to climb stairs, as until I can do that, I won’t be able to take a shower. Also, is there something I will need to help lift me off the couch if no one is around to do so? How long does it take before you no longer need help getting off the couch, out of bed etc? Any info you can tell me would be helpful.Thanks
May 5, 2010 at 4:33 pm
The Lupron has its ups and downs for me the good thing was no periods for three months I had my shot on jan 29 to prepare for myomectomy on april 27, the downs was the hot flashes and night sweats some aoccasional leg pain and I bleed the whole month of feb after I received the shot but it beats now not having a very heavy period changing pads every hour and a half or two. Does anyone know when the shot will wear off? I had my myomectomy and everything went great was just i pain for 5days!
May 21, 2010 at 8:09 pm
I just had my first shot of lupron, and will be getting 1 does a month for 6 months. I am mostly worried about hair loss. Does anyone if there is a supplement I can take the will prevent hair loss?
May 23, 2010 at 3:48 pm
How long does it take for lupron to get out of system? Does lupron cause hair loss if so; what can I do for the hair loss?
May 23, 2010 at 4:48 pm
I didn’t experience hair loss. I take my last shot in June. But, I am also wondering how long it takes to get out. I heard there are pills you can buy from GNC.
July 16, 2010 at 10:09 am
I had a hysterectomy 2 years ago for uterine fibroids, one measuring 10.5cm. Two months ago, I had pain that sent me to the ER only to find out I have a tumor/cyst next to my ovary which is roughly the same size 9.5cm. My dr. suggested trying Lupron Depot as a non-invasive alternative to surgery (laproscopy to drain, or surgery to remove ovary). After a month and a half of reading so many negative blogs about Lupron, I decided with God’s help I would try the Lupron. Had my first shot yesterday. The plan is to have another ultrasound after 3 injections and hopefully there’s 50% shrinkage. If so, then I stay on it for another 3 months. If not, surgery. Hoping to post as I go through this.
July 21, 2010 at 12:08 pm
I would urge everyone NOT to even try Lupron. Just ONE monthly shot for a small fibroid left me with a permanently distended abdomen! This is one year later. The drug did not even shrink my fibroid but now I have a huge belly even tho I only weigh 95 pounds – same as when I took Lupron. I’ve never been pregnant or fat and had a flat stomach my whole life until I took Lupron.
Stay away from Lupron and switch doctors if your doctor is pushing it! There are plenty of docs who will NOT recommend Lupron for your myomectomy. Please check out the Lupron victims’ websites springing up all over the internet and please take their warnings seriously.
August 21, 2010 at 1:30 pm
I’m curious as well on how long for others it took Lupron to leave your body.
I had “two” very large subserousal fibroids found when I was trying to conceive. My first injection was Jan 2010 and a 1 month. My body took it fine, then I received a 3 month with a recheck which he then said, lets do the Myom, scheduled for Aug 2010. This meant 3 more 1 month injections as I refused a 3 month in case I was able to get in for surgery on a waiting list earlier. My last injection was Approx Jul 6th.
Surgery went great, abdominal due to location and size. He even took photo’s for me as I was so curious to see what it looked like.
Anyway, I’m not to try to conceive for 3-6 months, but am slightly planning a time line, which includes approx how long before I return to cycles.
BTW, my side effects were, MAJOR hot flashes, heart palpitations, head aches, arm pain. ALL worth it!!
Thanks!