Went through 12 month treatment. Lupron and radiation. Cancer came back after 9 months. Now Lupron every 4 months forever. I was devistated she told this month.
I’ve been living with hepatitus b since 1970s, HIV since 1980s.
Went through 12 month treatment. Lupron and radiation. Cancer came back after 9 months. Now Lupron every 4 months forever. I was devistated she told this month.
I’ve been living with hepatitus b since 1970s, HIV since 1980s.
I am so sorry for your experiences with this crazy disease. I have been on Lupron every 3 months for 7 years. I was told that Lupron (Eligard the generic) does not kill cancer cells from the start. It stops the production of androgens (like testosterone). They explained to me that prostate cells (whether cancerous or not) have a spot on the prostate cell called the Androgen Receptor (AR) . In order for the cells to sub-divide and make new prostate cells an androgen molecule must come very close to the AR spot. This begins the cell division. Without androgens the cells can not duplicate and form tumors. Single cells can be released into the blood stream from the prostate and cause metastases throughout the body. These cells can not duplicate unless they have androgens present. Generally these single cells attach to bones, sink into the bone, and leave a pock mark on the bone. They are trapped. Other cells may go to the lymph nodes causing other problems. Each of us have different cancers, in different lobes of our prostate, with differing problems with surrounding tissues, different doctors and insurances, with differing ages and other diseases. So what is good for me may not be good for you. It is best to get a second opinion and then make a decision on your pathway. We are all thinking of you and will be interested in your decisions. Keep working on your progress in this crazy disease.
Sorry for your news. And, being on Lupron myself, I feel your pain re this devastating drug. It affects many aspects of life.
Good luck to you,
EdinBaltimore