Lupron and insomnia

I'm 24 and just recently finished my lupron treatment for endo. I'm still having some of the side effects and have yet to start my period again. I honestly would've rather had surgery again for endo than go through months of the side effects. The memory problems, overall fogginess, night sweats, insomnia, mood swings, hot flashes, and just the stress and complete crappy quality of life I've had most of this year has completely affected all aspects of my life. It's not easy at work, at home with my husband- surgery took a day or so to recovery from and this has been a nightmare for months and months. I'd really think about it and research the benefits for you vs the side effects before doing it. If there are any other options- I'd absolutely consider them.

I am deeply saddened to read all of these posts! I have a dear relative of mine who is suffering due to Lupron shots as you all are! Same symptoms same everything!

I did not know much of Lupron until she contacted me. My family knows that all my life I have struggled with health issues so they call on me for advice. It caused me to research Lupron for months. I am so glad it did, bc I was not aware that Lupron was so MUCH like Synarel was for me in my youth (I am 44 now).

I was prescribed this new unheard of Synarel for endo. It medical induced menopause-shrinking my uterus to the size of a walnut. I didn't care much about all that bc I was in pain w endo & cysts and was having way too many laps done. So I took this Synarel! You sniff 1 shot in 1 nostril am, and 1 shot in other nostril in pm. Suffice it to say that day built up and led me to 2002 where I had my oophorectomy-salpingo total hysterectomy.

I am in surgical menopause - and ladies so are you!! That is why all the terrible, terrible side effects! Losing hair, arthritis, hip fracture, hot flashes, insomnia, no libido, prolapse, etc. Just look at your mom, grandma, great grandma - you are experiencing their (age) symptoms. And doctor are saying that's a "normal" side effect of Lupron. Well of course it is your in Menopause!

THE GREAT NEWS is that there is help, answers, and health you just have to find it. I have been "finding" it since 2002 from all the resources I blog about and list on my blog (books, authors, doctors, pharmacies, websites, etc.). I am NOT a doctor just a woman who has been seeking answers to a life-long battle and who is FINALLY finding answers from those who have paved the way for me!

I would be honored if you would visit my blog and perhaps empower and arm yourself with the same information I have spent years researching!

I wish you all health, happiness and peace in these terribly difficult times you are going thru - there is light at the end of this tunnel - DON"T GIVE UP!

K.
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I had a lap done last year in May and my doctor removed an adhesion that was hanging above my uterus. Also a fibroid (3 cm) was found in the muscle and is located right against my bladder. My doctor could not remove the fibroid because of its location and because of a risk that I might have scar tissue and could be a problem to get pregnant. He also said that I could have some other complications, like lose a lot of blood. I feel like he is not being straight with me. I also have ovarian cysts which is common in the women in my family. Since a teenager, I always had really bad cramps and heavy bleeding. As I got older, it became worse. Before I had the lap done, I bleed for 6 weeks straight. I was changing pads every 30 minutes. Then my stomach extended so far out that I looked pregnant. I could not sit or stand. My husband had to take me to the E.R. An ultrasound was done and found that my uterus was enlarged (9 cm). I was put on Nothridone to control the bleeding and to treat endometriosis. After taking 2 months of this drug my doctor did a vag lap and abdomen lap. Everything was good that is what he said. I believed it. I was doing better. I was working and had no pain for 8 months. Then it all changed for the worse. I started to have really heavy menstrual bleeding and lots of blood clots. I felt week all the time and sick. The bleeding went on for 8 weeks and finally my doctor said that I had to take Lupron injections. I asked my doctor if he could just do a myomectmy and he said no because that was should be the last result. I could no longer stand the pain and I asked him what kind of side effects come with this drug. He made it sound like it was not bad and that there are very little side effects. He gave me a some information about the drug and I read the information and I did a lot of research. I was terrified but I had to make a choice. I was calling in sick because I could not work with the pain and worrying about embarrassing moments when my pads failed to keep me from overflowing. So I took the 1st shot in May along with add-bak therapy which is Nothridone. The bleeding tapered off slowly and the pelvic pain decreased. I did not feel any side affects right away until the second week. I started to forget things and would just stand in the middle of a room feeling confused. I always had headaches since a child but now they are pounding headaches, which I cannot stand any noise. I also can't stand the light. I have body aches like I have the flu and have problems with my right hip all of a sudden. I had a x-ray done because my doctor thought I might have fractured my hip. There was no sign of a fracture but my pelvis id tilted. I have some arthritis in my spine which I do not understand how that happened. Sometimes I cannot walk and I have to use crutches to get around. I cry all the time because I am extremely sensitive and confused. I use to be a very strong person and now I just cry all the time. I called my doctor to tell him what I have been experiencing and he said its all normal. I have already had a total of three Lupron injections and the symptoms just get worse. I have been spotting here and there, sometimes I have a pinkish discharge, and now the pelvic pain is back. My doctor knows this and he just says its normal. I requested for another ultrasound because I am worried something is wrong and he said that I have to wait until I get the 6th injection.I feel like my doctor is insensitive but he is supposed to be the best GYN doctor where I live. I also want to say that I have gained 20 pounds in three months. My sex drive is gone. My hair is thinning. I lost my job because I ran out of FMLA. This has been a nightmare! I am losing trust in my doctor. My poor husband and family are having to put up with what I am going through. I pray all the time to help be stay focused and think positive. I just do not know what to do anymore. Is there anyone out there that can give me some advice?

I am in the middle of my second month after getting the first shot (for 1 month) and the second ( for 3 months). I have recurrent fibroids and ovarian cysts that caused a lot of pain and severe bleeding.
I was scared to try Lupron. I consulted with my uncle who is an OB/Gyn and he told me that the version they use now is very safe, with side effects like many other drugs...
My doctor gave me options for the treatment, but because I want to get pregnant again (already have a 2 1/2 yr. old boy), hysterectomy was out of the question. The doctor removed some of my fibroids laparoscopically before I got pregnant with my son, but since they "showed up" again, he recommended to treat them with Lupron instead of removing them trough surgery, because the surgery leaves scarring that can later interfere with fertility.
Anyway, YES I have experienced many side effects mentioned here: hot flashes, mood swings, a couple of headaches, and some "bloating". The worst side effect for me has been insomnia...but they really haven't been that terrible...you learn to deal with them. I am in no pain and didn't get my period this month.
I guess everybody is different and they experience everything in a unique way.
My suggestion is to try it if you really need it and weigh in the pros and cons objectively.
Good luck!

ok, so I am 28yrs old just had my second lap for endo and my doctor has recommended lupron, after reading this I am soooooooooo scared to even get near this med. Its like you either take this with the hope of saving fertility and no pain..or not and have endo ravage your body and you will live with unbearable pain!!! I have no idea what to do, my post-op surgery appt is this week, and i am so scared after reading this. Is there anyone that did not have weight gain, headaches etc...anyone that can testify that lupron actually worked for them? Cause right now its my health on the line, my ability to have children, my ability to have a normal life free of endo pain or these crazy, horrible side effects...please help me!!!

I am 26 years old and I was diagnosed with endometriosis last year (2008). I had pain in my lower abdomen for years and doctors always told me nothing was wrong but I knew there was. Finally a doctor did an ultrasound and found a 7cm mass on my left ovary. I also had a slightly smaller mass on my right ovary. My doctor told me that he would need to do a lap to remove the masses and possibly remove my left ovary because he could hardly see any ovarian tissue on the ultrasound. Thank goodness when he did the lap I was able to keep but ovary but he told me that I had one of the worst cases of endo he had seen. My right ovary was stuck to the wall of my abdomen due to the endo and I even had endo on my bowel. He removed what he could but not all of it was removable. He suggested that I go on Lupron for 6 months to "shrink" the rest of the endo. I have been on Lupron for 3 months. I just went and got my second 3 month injection. I have had some side effects such as Headaches, Bone pain, Hot Flashes, Insomnia, Drowsiness, Increased appetite and major Mood Swings. All of which come and go. I try to stay active but I don't over do it. It seems to help with the joint pain. Most of my side effects were in the first 2 months of getting the injections. I am told all the time that everyone reacts differently to Lupron and there is a pill you can take to reduce the side effects of Lupron but it does reduce the effects of the Lupron so my doctor suggested that I not take it unless the side effects were unbearable. I don't remember what it is called but if you are one of those people having major side effects ask your doctor.

I have had 3 injections of Lupron. The first one I felt no side effects, the second came with miserable hot flashes, and with the third my life changed dramatically. Along with the hot flashes, were insomnia, extreme anxiety attacks and a racing heartbeat. I will not take this drug again. It has been over a month since the last injection and symptoms have not gone away. I was prescribed xanax for the anxiety and ambien for the insomnia. They help, but after 3 weeks I am still miserable. Does anyone know when this stuff gets out of your system?

Attention!
I used Lupron protocol for IVF the last year 07. I began to have side effects a couple of weeks after I finish it. I had hot flashes, headache, insomnia and gain weight. However, on October 07 I began with burning sensation in both legs, which do not allow me to sleep or rest during the night or day. I went with 2 neurologists and I had a lot of blood tests done, also 2 nerve conduction study, 3 MRI… and until now November 08, No diagnosis. The burning sensation in my legs is not a joke! I need to try to keep my legs cool or my life is miserable, even in the winter my legs and feet are hot. I soak my feet almost every night in bucket of cold water and ice because they are practically burning. This year on November 08 I received again lupron as microdosis lupron protocol. Immediately, I begin to have the hot flashes 5 or 6 days after start it. The last year was after few weeks to finish the protocol. Also, the burning sensation in my legs is worst this second time. For a couple of weeks before use the Lupron again, the sensation in my legs was very light. Actually I cannot sleep at night and normally I wake up during the night because my legs feel on fire. Please if someone knows more about it, write in this blog. We need to figure out what is going on.

I just went to the Dr. for my second Lupron injection and to get some help with the side effects. Menopausal/emotional me, started crying!!! Gawd! I went in with my list of side effects from the last 3 months (and it was long!) and wondered what was worse, the pain of endometriosis or the life changing side effects of Lupron. My Dr. is wonderful and spent an hour with me; he decided to put me on Provera (progesterone or add-back therapy) for a week to see if the side effects improve. If they do, I get my second dose of Lupron in a week. If not, we stop it all and let my body slowly try to get back to normal (although I have never known what "normal" is since endometriosis) and see how the "therapy" worked. He is strongly encouraging me to follow through with the 6 month course as that is the recommended length of time for the best results. I'm 5'8" and have lost 10 lbs. in the last three months, I'm down to 107 lbs. He told me to try and eat more if I could (although my nausea is constant 24hrs. a day) and make sure to take a daily vitamin and calcium for bone loss. He said that he has never heard of blurred vision to be a side effect of Lupron, "But every woman is effected differently." I'm really hoping the Provera works - any kind of relief is better than this! I'm still having 3-4 hotflashes every hour with extreme exhaustion/fatigue, night sweats, daily migraine headaches, nausea 24hrs. a day, life changing mood swings, and shaky hands. He kept reminding me that this only 6 months out of my life - it's not forever ... forever feels like an awful long time when you can barely get out of bed!

If you have any other course of treatment, take it. It has been 6 years since my last injection of Lupron. Between the ages of 26-36 I was given a total of 18 injections( 3- 6months treatments), to try and treat my endometriosis, It did not work, I ended up having my ovaries removed. I was not aware or told of the effects from the Lupron I would have(* except for TEMPORARY hot flashes and no period) to tolerste over the years. My short term memory is gone almost, I feel like an idiot most of the time. I can remember what bathing suit I had when I was five, but I can't remember a what subject I am talking about when I am on the phone or talking to a person for example. I am 43. Because of all the Lupron I was given, I had to start getting a yearly mammogram when I was 30 because of the hormones, so I get an added bonus of a 10 year head start on radiation form the x-ray machines. Besides the memory loss, I have insomnia, hot flashes, vision problems, fatigue, and LIVER problems ( I am not a drinker or a drug user). I know people would think this is a normal part of menopause, however, I have been having all of these symptoms, even with my ovaries and never had any of these symptoms until my 3rd injection of Lupron. I refuse to go on PREMARIN, (why would I want another hormone, and one made from pregnant horse urine!) If Lupron works for you, wonderful, but my doctor, said the symptoms would be gone within 4 months after my last shot. HE WAS WRONG. Good Luck

I WAS GIVEN MY FIRST THREE MONTH INJECTION IN JANUARY, SO IT WAS SUPPOSED TO END IN MARCH, SO FAR THIS AWFUL SHOT SEEMS TO BE IN MY SYSTEM STILL!! NOT ONLY DO I STILL GET NIGHT SWEATS, I HAVE MAJOR JOINT PAIN, FATIGUE, MEMORY LOSS AND STILL NO PERIOD (ALONG WITH OTHER SIDE EFFECTS, TOO LONG TO LIST!)!! MY MAIN REASON FOR THIS POST, IS TO ASK IF ANYONE KNOWS HOW LONG IT TAKE TO GET YOUR PERIOD BACK?? NOT THAT I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO IT, BUT I AM JUST CONCERNED, BECAUSE I HAVE NOT HAD ONE IN 2 1/2 MONTHS!! ANY REPLIES WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED!!

I was prescribed Lupron for my first IVF cycle. I have given myself 5 shots of 10 units so far. The last three nights I had night sweats and a little bit of insomnia but nothing that was unbearable. I just took the blankets off and went back to sleep. I think the people who take Lupron for endometriosis take a much higher dose. I don't think IVF candidates should be scared off by Lupron. So far so good!

I have been taken 10 units of Lupron for the past 3 days in preparation of IVF with donor eggs. I am also on BCP until tomorrow. The symptoms from lupron were felt pretty much after my first shot. I have been feeling irritable, moody and have terrible insomnia at night and a mild lingering headache, but no hot flashes - at least not yet. The insomnia is terrible as I wake up in the middle of the night with horrible thoughts and feeling agitated and irritable. I would describe the overall feeling as if I have been drinking 20 cups of strong coffee per day and feeling constantly pepped up. But as some of you said, I keep on thinking of the end result and the opportunity to possibly get what I would otherwise miss out in life if not for these drugs - a baby to love and cherish.
Ok, for now we endure Lupron and the future meds like progesterone oil shots which sound "very" exciting.
Good luck to everyone.

I'm 23 and I was diagnosed with adenomyosis, which is internal endometriosis (in which the endometriotic tissue grows within my uterine wall) I have been on Lupron since Nov 2007. I do not recommend this treatment to anyone unless they are in dire need. Though I am supposed to be on it for 6 months, I will not be continuing Lupron due to the negative side effects I have experienced. I've been experiencing extreme mood swings, from being enraged, on edge, anxious, emotional, or very depressed. I get intense head aches, very nauseas, swelling in my stomach at times as well as stomach pain, blurry vision, achy bones and joints, confusion, hard time concentrating, forgetfulness, insomnia, cramps and pressure...and the list goes on.
Please inform yourself and do lots of research before ever thinking of taking Lupron. I would never do this again, especially after realizing the harmful effects it has had on my body physically and mentally. I've learned to trust that the best people to listen to are those that have actually experienced this drug, rather than those that are trying to promote it. Everyone that I have talked to that has either taken Lupron or knows someone that has, have had the similar experiences to mine.
I'm disappointed about my experience with Lupron, and I would never recommend this treatment to anyone.

PLEASE READ BEFORE TAKING LUPRON DEPOT:
Hey there, I just thought I would add my experiences with the drug for everyone. I am a 25 year old with stage IV endo. I have already done a Laparoscopy and removed some of my endo. Started the Lupron on a six month treatment. My doctor said I would probably lose my period in a couple of months... well, I was due for my period two weeks after first shot and I didn't get it. I didn't have a period from then on.

This drug is great for only one thing: pain removal. It's been great for this aspect. I was in SO much pain that it was unbearable, but the Lupron Depot shots REALLY helped with this. No pain whatsoever.

HOWEVER:
Side effects: Wow...these are extreme!

WEIGHT GAIN:
Now, I am a very healthy person. I was a college cheerleader and in shape. I eat well and exercise very regularly. This did not help one bit after taking the shots! Within six months I have put on 30 pounds!!! And this is even though I am still exercising more than ever and eating amazingly! It just doesn't seem to matter.

HOT FLASHES:
My hot flashes are severe. I carry a fan with me everywhere I go--and use it all the time. They can come on me so sudden. Sometimes they are based on emotions (e.g. if I get nervous or excited or sad...they come on really strong).

NIGHT SWEATS:
Um, yeah...it's gross. I keep a fan on my face, the window open, barely any clothes on, no covers...and I still sweat!!!!!

INSOMNIA:
I have not had too many good night sleeps since I started the shots. I will say though that as long as I am kept cool through the night then I have a better chance of sleeping well

NAUSEA:
It's strange, but I never get nauseous...not even from motion sickness, but I have been starting on the last shot of the treatment. It was so bad that I would throw up!

One last thing, I tend to have a messed up equilibrium a bit. Seriously, I find myself walking crooked all the time!

On a whole the best I can say is that this drug makes you feel like it's not really your body. I kind of feel like my body has the flu or something.....it just feels weird and strange all the time. You can tell your body is all screwed up.

Other than that I haven't had anything else.

This drug is GREAT for pain removal and it's also nice to not deal with a period for a while, but the other side effects are so horrible that I would rather deal with the pain.

I just pray that the weight I gained will come off after the estrogen returns to my body....

I just started my first Lupron shot yesterday & my jaw will not stop jittering. I had been getting hot flashes for the last 3 period & had slight insomnia. Last night I finally fell asleep at 5am to then have to get up at 6:45 am to get my son off to school. Due to the jiteriness that I've been feeling I feel as tho I am on some sorta crazy drug that I really shouldn't be on! After reading some others side effects on this sight I'm really starting feel I made a wrong decision going on this Lupron shot.... My Dr. refused to give me a 2nd laparoscopy & I just couldn't handle the pain shooting down my legs from my abdominal area due to the endometriosis. I have always had BAD reactions to hormones... I should've known this wouldn't be good either. But my Dr. ensured me the side effects really were'nt that bad.... he's a damn lier!!!

I just took my first of six shots 2 days ago. I'm already experiencing a general hot feeling, hot flashes and insomnia. I'm worried after reading these posts. ... My doctor did not explain the severity of the side effects prior to recommending the drug. Should I continue the treatment? My endometriosis only effects my life during my periods, and have no symptoms while im not menstruating. However, my period pain is so severe it impairs my ability to function. What do i do?

I have not taken Lupron. In fact, I refused to take it at my doctor's insistence. I am a healthy 45 year old woman - why would I give that up for a temporary fix (6 months at most) for my endometriosis when I may have other options?

I don't want to trade my low blood pressure, healthy body weight, healthy bones, ability to sleep, clear skin, normal bowel movements, lack of severe migraines and lack of irritability for lack of endo pain.

I do not discount the endo pain - it can be crippling - but so is this drug! Everyone must make their own decision regarding whether or not to take Lupron but please, please do your research. Most doctors don't let you know that you have options. Call the Endometriosis Organization and ask for a specialist in your area. Endo is a little-known and often misunderstood disease. Find yourself a surgeon with a great deal of experience with endo - NOT an OB with a great deal of experience delivering babies.

It really upsets me to see so many women feel that they have to pay this price to relieve the pain. I am going to an endo specialist for a second opinion in a couple of weeks. I don’t know what he’ll say about my case but I am pretty sure the answer won’t be Lupron.

I am not usually a person who senses a doctor or a drug company is unethical, but remember, there will be no greater advocate for your health than yourself! Educate yourself, and ask your doctor lots of questions. If your doctor gives you a hard time – find another one. It’s your body and you have to live with the consequences.

Lupron is terrible! I was given lupron after my lap which discovered endometriosis. I had my second injection last week. My pelvic pain is still here and now the Lupron side effects are killing me. I have insomnia, restlessness, bad mood swings, back hurts all the time, fatigue all the time, depression, headaches, and awful HOT FLASHES. I was not given other options but to take this poison. If I had done my research I would have said hell no to Lupron. It's all about the money...Dr's and pharmacy companies are making the big bucks while most of us suffer. Oh yes, and my blood pressure, which is normally low (110/60) is now up to 150/100. I'm not thinking this is too great for my health. And another sad thing is that the long term effects are not really known. I WILL NOT take another injection. I would rather take my regular endo pain over this in a heartbeat. Don't let them fool you.......Lupron is a VERY BAD thing. Anyone who is thinking about....do you research and think long and hard . Is it worth it? I don't think so...
Kelly

I am reading so many negative comments, but I really can't complain. I just did the 5th out of 6 shots to treat endometriosis and honestly, I truly believe it has worked. I don't have the pain that I used to have any more! I did start getting hot flashes and had trouble sleeping, but my doctor prescribed Norethindrone to take everyday and it has almost completely taken away the bad side effects. I think it just depends on the person-how their body will react.

I am just so unhappy all the time. I feel fat, tired, and i cry everyday. I feel humiliated becuase i'm so emotional, i dont want to tell anyone. But i have, but it still seems that no one understand me. I feel detached from everyone. I just turned 24. I had my third shots 4 days ago. I've failed all my classes this semester. Does it really get worse after this even though i just had my last shot?? What will happen next? Does the doctor give me other pills to take after this? I'm also on the BC pill that is suppose to be a back up method with the shots. The Birth control ( BC) is call Errin. I just feel better telling people that understand me. I do not know anyone who has done this before. I've gain almost 25lbs already. Women who respond to this will just make me feel so much better. I didnt even know i was really going to feel this bad. I feel unhappy and tired ALL the time. I feel like people who i know care for me, dont care for me. Did it do this to ya'll? I have night sweats, my headaches arnt so bad now, hot flashes that come and go ALL THE TIME, nausea, sleeplessness, i can never stop thinking about things, i have bad anxeity about nothing, i can never relax. Please respond...anything would be nice. And another bad part is, i just had started dating a guy right before the shots. lol. and 3 months ago i was 25 lbs lighter and more fun. And i really like this guy, everything just seems bad right now.

I am having surgery in two weeks (laparascopy, hysteroscopy, and uterine ablation). My doctor gave me a shot of Lupron to prepare my body for the surgery. I had to ask for information regarding the drug as none was offered. One side effect stated was increase in depression, which concerned me because I am on anti-depressants. I talk to my psych med doctor and he didn't seem concerned. Well, I immediately had symptoms of forgetfulness and confusion. My depression increased significantly (I cried for six days straight), I could not function normally, I broke up with my boyfriend whom I love very much because I thought my world was coming to an end, and on and on, migrane, hip and pelvic pain, weakness, sleeplessness, lack of appetite. Two weeks after the injection I am finally starting to come to reality and trying to fix the mess I made emotionally. Apparently, there was a medication I could have been given to counteract or lessen some of these side effects, but no one bothered to tell me. My advise, if you are feeling any side effects, contact your doctor immediately. I"m only glad I only had to have one shot and would NEVER get another.

I am only 18 and this is my second shot in the second month I feel that i cannot sleep, i can hardly eat without feeling sick, hot flashes, mood swings, can't go to the bathroom right, night sweats, i feel nauseated once in a while, my lower back hurts at least once a day, craving thirst alot, emotional all the time, not tired at all though, I just want to know if it gets any better or if it just cures the pain for a little while because I haven't really had any cramps lately except when I had my cycle last month and it was the heaviest one I have ever had.

I started on Lupron in January 2006 and took my last injection on June 27. I was taking Lupron for endometerosis. I had the hot flashes which were horrible, mood swings and insomnia, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Lupron brochures states you do not want to get pregnant while on Lupron but they do not need to worry about it because sex is uncomfortable due to the vaginal dryness. It is now August and I still have not had a period. I would not recommend Lupron for anyone.

After reading some of the posts on this board, I felt that I must submit my experience with the Lupron Depot injections. I am 25 and started the Lupron Depot in May 2006. I get the monthly injections and am planned to be on the treatment for 6 months. I just received my 3rd shot 4 days ago. I am very happy at this point that I decided to go on this treatment. My dr. suspects that I have Endometriosis and gave me the option of trying the Lupron Depot or having a laporascopy (spelling?) to diagnos it. I chose the Lupron Depot. The first 3-4 weeks after my initial shot was difficult. The symptoms I was having increased and sometimes hurt so badly that I would stay home or go home from work. I also experienced hot flashes (weren't too bad), night sweats, insomnia and mood swings. However, after the first month (before my second shot), the symptoms started to decrease. Now, I rarely have any pevlic or lower back pain which was a constant before the injections. I do have an occasional hot flash (I've had one in the past month), night sweats, trouble sleeping, slight memory loss, an occassional mood swing, and joint pain. Thse things may sound horrible, but it is so much better than before taking the Lupron. My Dr. had me stay on my continuous birth control (Yasmin 28) and attributes the fact that my Lupron side effects aren't bad to that. I was worried that my libido would decrease to nothing when reading about the side effects Lupron can cause, but I think it's gotten better. Now, I know that I can have intercourse with my husband and it not hurt. Before the Lurpon, I was suffering from depression because of the pain, decreased libido because of how much intercourse hurt, and the pain was unbarable most times. I think deciding to go on the Lupron Depot was one of the best decisions I've made, and I truly think my Dr. for recommending it.

I am only 36. I had a Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy of my uterus. I was in surgery for over 2hours. My uterus was attached to my stomach, my ovary attached to my uterus. I had my right fallopian tube all twisted like a telephone cord. My left fallopian tube had a huge endometrioma in it. The doctor put everything back where it belonged, and cauterized some of the severe endometriosis. After surgery, I took Lupron for the recommended 6 months. Yes, it helped my Endometriosis, while I was on it. But, it is now ONE year later, and I am in just as much pain as I was BEFORE I took this medication. AND NOW on top of the endo pain, I HAVE SIDE EFFECTS FROM THIS MEDICINE THAT WON'T GO AWAY. I have had Foot pain since the first shot. I had leg pains, deep in the bones. I have had tendonitis in every limb, it just keeps moving around my body. (Lupron supposedly dries out your tendons) I had memory loss (though that was mostly temporary, mostly words) I had the night sweats and insomnia, though those both went away for the most part. I too was extremely emotional, both angry and upset. I also began to feel helpless and almost suicidal. The pain from the side effects made me feel this way. I gained about 20lbs. I have Osteopenia now, which is bone density loss, everyone should have a bone density test after Lupron. My feet are still killing me though. I wish they weren't, I would give anything to turn back to before Lupron so that I could say no thank you. Good luck to anyone who takes this, but hopefully all these posts will help you decide not to take it. It really isn't worth messing your life up at such an early age. I will never be the person I was before.

Well, First of all I'm 16 years old and I was diagnosed a Little less than a year ago with stage 3 endometriosis. I Suffered with it for about 3 years. I started having Pain again 1 month after my surgery. So My doctor decided to put me on this 6th month treatment of Lupron. Well to be honest I would have rather had 1,000 surgeries then EVER be on this stuff again. I have had even worse pain ever since I started it. I have terrible Hot flashes, Night sweats, and Insomnia. Not to mention It being hard to focus, Being exhausted all the time, and Now Tingling and heaviness in my feet and hands. This medicine has even Made my heart beat so fast it would wake me out of a sound sleep. Its so hard being 16 and Having to fight for your fertility. Some women may find this medication Relieving, well its hell and it has made me miserable from day one. I think I would do Just about anything If I could have never had Endometriosis. Girls I just want you to know I feel your pain and I'm so sorry and Im very sympathetic if you are as miserable as I am.

53 year old, runner, given shot for fibroids,Day after 1st shot (30 day) side effects started: High blood pressure, racing heart, shaky hands, flushing. Had these problems for a couple of days, then started with chest pain, chest heaviness, shoulder and neck pain feeling like I couldn't breath, pounding heart, barely able to make it up the stairs in my house. Ended up in the ER from the severe chest pain - all tests were normal.
additional side effects two days later - blurry vision at times, tingling in hands and feet, occasionally spreading up to my head, insomnia, pounding feeling in my chest, another trip to the ER - again all tests normal. Now on top of all the above, I am having severe indigestion and feel like I have a large lump in my throat and have a hard time swallowing. I still have 2 weeks left. Hope it all goes away soon - also have been bleeding for about 10 days - What a nightmare!!!

The first time I took Lupron (for multiple ovarian cysts) I was a nervous wreck. I gained forty pounds, hated myself and everyone around me and had the worst hot flashes I have ever experienced. Let's not forget acne, back pain, insomnia and mood swings. I was very upset when my doctor put me on it again. However, I have to say that taking Provera as a add back hormone has really changed my thoughts on Lupron. I do have the same issues, but not to the same extent. In other words, the side affects are managable. I think it's better than suffering from multiple ovarian cysts...which are VERY painful for me.

I experienced horrible side effects while on Lupron. At best, hot flashes and night sweats. At worst, chest pain, palpitations, anxiety, achy and swollen joints and muscles. After four months I had to get off it. It took a long time to feel somewhat back to normal. Lately I've been reading posts here from people who have been on the drug for a couple of weeks and are doing OK. I hope they NEVER experience what MANY of us have suffered. But, I myself felt OK the first month I was on it. The serious side effects didn't happen until after my second shot. For some, add-back therapy does relieve symptoms, but there are real risks involved there too, and some of us just can't take hormonal medications. I guess we all have to weigh the side effects/benefits/risks. There aren't a lot of options when it comes to endometriosis.

I am using daily low dose Lupron injections in preparation for an IVF surrogacy. This is my second try as the first embryo failed to thrive. The first cycle, the Lupron clouded my thinking and caused severe aches and pains. This time around, though, I am having more frightening symptoms of heart palipitations and chest pains that keep me from sleeping at night. It's hard to know when a doctor should be seen about these side effects or simply wait them out, as they seems to be common with this med. I am required to take this med, there is no other option, but I want to give a word of advice for those using Lupron for the treatment of ENDOMETRIOSIS- I HAD LESIONS CAUTERIZED WHEN I WAS 23 (6 YEARS AGO) AND I WAS TOLD THAT THEY WOULD COME BACK INDEFINITELY. THE CONDITION IS CAUSED BY AN EXCESS OF ESTROGEN. THERE IS A SIMPLE,SIDE EFFECT FREE,AND CHEAP WAY TO REMEDY THIS CONDITION. YOU CAN GO TO A HEALTH FOOD STORE AND FOR $16-25 YOU CAN BUY A NATURAL, PLANT DERIVED PROGESTERONE CREAM THAT YOU SIMPLY RUB ON YOUR SKIN. IT WORKS! I PREVIOUSLY HAD 2 MISCARRIAGES BECAUSE I WAS LOW ON THIS IMPORTANT HORMONE. A MEDICAL DOCTOR WILL NOT RECOMMEND THIS TREATMENT BECAUSE THEY ARE TRAINED IN ARTIFICIAL MEDICATIONS, NOT NATURAL. GO TO A NATURAPATHIC DOCTOR IF YOU LIKE, OR SIMPLY DO THE RESEARCH YOURSELF, AS I DID. SYMPTOMS OF LOW PROGESTERONE ARE TROUBLE SLEEPING, WEIGHT GAIN, THROID PROBLEMS,LOW LIBIDO, UNABLE TO SUSTAIN PREGNANCY. When I am not preparing for an IVF cycle, I have been using it faithfully beginning the 12th-28th days of my cycle for 6 years. You would not believe all the health problems that hormone imbalance causes. I am now in great health(sans Lupron), ideal weight, have no problems with my thyroiditis (I have not needed meds), have no trouble sleeping(normally), and have not had a single fibromyalgia flare up since (again, before Lupron) and I was able to sustain a pregnancy to have a wonderful son. AGAIN, DO NOT EXPECT YOUR DOCTOR TO INDORSE THIS, MINE DID NOT AND I HAD 2 MISCARRIAGES BEFORE FINALLY TAKING MY HEALTH INTO MY OWN HANDS. GOD IS GOOD!

I started Lupron 3 months ago and have to say, has been the worst 3 months of my 38 years of living. Headaches, anxiety, change of mood, hot flashes, insomnia, decreased of sex... Went to the doctor last Friday for my second shot and after talking to the doctor, I decided to stop the treatment.

I'm 28 years old and just recentally stopped taking the drug. My doctor told me that after my treatment was complete my body would return to normal. My last 3-month injection was in March, it's now September and still no period, recuring hot flashes, headaches, insomnia, and noooo sex drive.
Does anyone out there know how long it takes for your body to return to normal?
I would like to one day have a family and I am concerned that if my body doesn't return to normal how is that going to happen.
I have a doc. appt. today and will ask her these questions, but I would like other oppionions.

Thanks-

Oh, my gosh. I wish I had been aware of this site 13 years ago. After reading all the postings, I know now that I'm not alone. Thank you to all for sharing your stories - they've really helped me. Please have patience with me as I am going to unload my lengthy story now. I am currently going through my third treatment of Lupron and am 40 years old. After my first treatment at age 27 for severe endo, I became terribly depressed and had severe panic attacks. This was very much unlike me - I had no history of depression and was an optimist. I also acquired all kinds of vaginal infections which my doctor had no answer for even though he tested me for everything and said it was not related to the drug. Oh, and let's not forget about that great insomnia which really, really helped my performance at work. As most doctors say, and worse yet, I believed them -- "it was all in my head" and had to get more prescriptions to sleep, etc. Like a dummy, after my second lap surgery in which they had to remove my appendix as well because of the endo, I went through another treatment of Lupron. Just lovely. Had serious problems concentrating, vision problems and yes, had my first and only migraine - I thought I was dying. I even went to the emergency room at my doctor's request. Dear God, they gave me a spinal tap because they thought I might have Spinal Meningitis. But, of course, I didn't have anything but a migraine. It was just that wonderful drug Lupron. I didn't make the connection until I came to this site. Finally, and even though I was an athlete for a long time (although I've picked up a very bad habit of smoking and occasional drinking now), I had spinal fusion surgery for my neck two years ago because my discs were deterioriating... any connection to Lupron? I think so. What a vicious cycle. If I had known then that I wouldn't have children so manyyears ago, I would have elected for a hysterectomy right then. I would have been much saner, much healthier and wouldn't be going through the treatment again for endo. Now, since reading everyone's postings, I don't know what to do. I just had my second monthly shot of Lupron and I'm still bleeding. Can't wait to see what the next round of side effects will be. Do I sound bitter? Shame on the medical community. All this time I thought there was something wrong with me and that I had caused all these physical problems - it was like my body betrayed me and I blamed myself which made everything even worse. It lowered my self esteem, shrunk my breasts (yikes!), and made me feel like crap. Thank you again, for listening. This has been a great help to get this off my chest. I welcome any comments.

Lupron has been a terrifying experience for me. It was recommended as a last approach prior to a hysterectomy. I am 29 years old with two children. I have an incredible amount of scar tissue as a result of infections. I experience incredible hot flashes, confusion, extreme insomnia, joint pain, sharp pains in my back and abdomen, extreme vile nausea and dizziness. Vision issues, you name it. It was wonderful to see feedback from everyone to know that I am not alone. My doctor says that all of this is a figment of my imagination. The most terrifying of all is the fact that I cannot seem to think straight. I was an incredibly technical person before I started on the lupron injections (i'm on my 2nd and last 3 month shot), and I now feel like I've been reduced to nothing. I cannot manage to do things that would have been extremely simplistic before. Sometimes the cramping is so bad that I cannot move. I cannot wait until this is over.

I am on my eighth month of lupron and have experienced all of the aforementioned side effects including vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, moodiness, hot flashes and insomnia. I received my eighth shot about a week ago and I am feeling extremely anxious and paranoid. I am so emotional and feel like I am completely going crazy. Up to this point I have been a trooper and have complained little about my side effects. While they have been at times, inconvenient, they have not been completely intolerable. I am now at my wits end. I am really getting scared.
I have been on premarin for a few months. Should I double up on it (as my doctor recommended to aaid me with my sleeping troubles)? Will it help with the craziness I feel? Needless to say I am not getting the ninth shot (I have been prescribed 9 months of treatment). I want this stuff out of me as soon as possible. Any idea how long it will take me to regain a bit of sanity if I don't get any more of this drug??

I was definitively diagnosed with endo at 27, but had symptoms for years prior. I am now 42. My doctor told me at the age of 27 he was not going to put me on Lupron, as the side effects could be horrific for a woman that age; my goal was not conception, but rather pain relief. He said if I could ride it out until I started showing menopausal symptoms, then we would go with the Lupron prior to hysterectomy.
The endoscopy done at that time bought me about 4 months of relief, then the symptoms started to slowly recur. With my having had a precocious puberty, it was a pretty sure bet I would go premenopausal in a few years.
Started at age 37; the endo pain has gotten so severe that it now keeps me up nights, mid-cycle (whenever that may be - my cycles have been doing their own thing now). I already have hot flashes, night sweats.
I was given the Lupron 2 weeks ago, in order to calm the inflamed lesions prior to my hysterectomy in a few months. They also plan on taking one ovary, and this will give my body an adjustment period prior to surgery (the hope is I can maintain my female hormone levels without redevelopment of full blown endo before I am naturally finished with menopause).
Headaches? Night sweats? Hot flashes? Insomnia? Had them before I started Lupron.
And in my case, I have lost 4 lbs in 2 weeks without really trying; except for the fact my craving for candy is diminished. I still eat some, but when I go to the store, I can pass the candy aisle without even having to browse, to see what's new. I just don't care anymore.

I had two shots of lupron for uterine fiboids and the side effects are terrible. I had a migraine today and was unable to work. I went to the doctor and he said headaches were not a know side effect. Other effects I have experienced include: memory problems, sweating, no sex drive, hot flashes, insomnia, headaches. I haven't read that lupron can cause blood clotting but I am sure anything is possible with thisdrug. Anyone know how the side effects last after stopping drug??

I have been using Lupron for 10 days in preparation for IVF. I am so relieved to see that others have experienced similar side effects. I have had a constant nagging headache since starting the medication - not severe like a migraine, just highly annoying. I have had a few hot flashes, mostly during the night but also some during the day, which leave me feeling overall tired and "sick". The worst is the insomnia. While the hot flashes do wake me up, that is not the reason for the insomnia - it occurs every night regardless of hot flash. I can't sleep at all. Have tried benadryl but did not work at all - this is odd because it has always made me sleep any other time. Ativan does work, it's almost as if the insomnia is related to a jittery or panicked feeling. The nagging headache also seems to contribute to the insomnia. I am due to start ovarian stimulation drugs in another week, and I have read that this may alleviate the Lupron side effects. I hope so. I feel crazy and not at all like myself. I have been having horrible thoughts at night as I lie awake.

Hot flashes, headache, NO sex drive; repulsed by any sexual intamicy. Very uncomfortable wetness in vagina, severe depression, boyfriend has nearly lost all patients. Horrible memory loss, blurred vision, spacey and cannot focus on anything. I look horrible too, my eyes look like I'm a meth head, sunken in look, too bad the Kate Moss look has passed (joking). Had surgery last June, no help with that or birth control therapy, now on third month of Lupron. Really want to melt away. Hot flashes all night and day, insomnia. Skin has frequent rash appearences.
Any helpful ideas? email me at ******

When I was in the fifth grade I recieved my first period, I had what was called Precocious Puberty where all of my reproductive organs grew faster because of growth hormones put in chicken and stuff. Being on my period my bones were fusing and not allowing me to grow more and I was very very short. So my doctor put me on Growth Hormones and Lupron. At first there were no side effects, but as time progressed side-effects kicked in, I had trouble sleeping, I had lots of aches, I was moody, and I was constantly tired even though I eventually went to sleep. Around March last year I was taken off because over time it stopped working and I started to notice change. I am thirteen now and am still on growth hormones and growning fast. In the last six month I almost grew an inch. I am around five foot.

I am so thankful that I found this site....I thought I was going crazy when I started experiencing vision changes. My mother told me that vision changes with age...I knew it wasn't because I turned 35....I received a 3 month shot Sept. 2004..once it hit my system it literally took me off of my feet. I was in the bed for 7 straight days with muscle spasms, no appetite, insomnia, headaches, anxiety....elevated blood pressure and heart palpitations...The blessing in this is that I switched doctors and now will not have a mymomectomy at this time, which was scheduled for Nov. 2004. Prayerfully the tumors won't grow and I can carry a baby.
My question is....will everything go back to normal once the medicine wears off? I am waiting for a cycle and praying that I will be normal again...I sometimes cry and get so mad at myself for not holding off my decision to take the shot...I trusted my doctor over researching first.
If you trying to shrink tumors....I don't think the shot makes a great deal of a difference...and I have friends who had surgery without lupron and they were fine.

Insomnia, Weight gain, short term memory loss, hot flashes

I have had 4 shots of Lupron, after having surgery for endometriosis. I am 39 years old and had the surgery for a suspicious ovarion cyst found on ultrasound. Turns out I had significant endometriosis, but have had 3 children despite this. My side effects have been hot flashes, insomnia, back, spine and hip pain and most distressing, an increase in migraines. I tried taking the add back therapy but that just increased my headaches. After recently vomiting during a migraine, my heart started racing and beating irregularily. My husband brought me to the ER and I was given IV's to get my heart back in rhythm and was also given numerous tests to see what was wrong. They were all normal. The atrial fibrillation may have been caused from vomiting, from the Lupron, who knows. When I went to my OB after all of this, she took me off of the Lupron. My advice is to think hard before taking this drug. It definately helped my pelvic pain, but as a mother with 3 small children, I felt the side effects were too difficult for me.

9 months after marriage, prostate cancer was discovered. The choice was surgury or Lupron with radiation. I chose the latter because radiation is pervasive and could pick up micro cancerous cells as well in the vicinity of the prostate. I experienced the usual symptoms from Lupron, but the prolong effect, 2 years after ceasing injections is lethargy and laziness. In addition to insomnia and weight gain, some 15 Lbs and a breasts simiar to Cushings syndrom. But I am alive, because the actuaries for cancer are 4 years to death and it is a miserable death. So I am grateful. There is no sex drive, neither with Viagra and I no longer have the desire, but I owe a responsibility to my new wife, who has told me it does not matter, but I am sure that she would be much happier if I could perform that ritual. The most important ailment which affects me is my inability to generate income due to tiredness, sleeplessness and memory loss which leads to poor decision making and certainly less aggression. These are the symptoms that have remained after the hot flashes and the noctornal presperation has past. Prior to cancer inception, I had the discipline to make the 6 AM swim at the YMCA for a mile. Now I am trying to get into the pool twice a week for 1/4 mile after which I have to repair to bed for an hour to recover. Medicine has pushed us too far past the normal limit of existance and we should not be ungrateful for that if uncomfortable side effects accompany our efforts for preservation on this earth. I am grateful for Lupron for its curative effect regardless of the side effects

I had my first shot of Lupron a week ago for undiagnosed endo. I feel like I'm goin gcrazy, you don't know what is from the shot and what isn't. I have had a headache that feels like my eyes are poppin gout of my head for four days straight...trouble sleeping, my appetite is gone. I cry and hell at the people i love. They didn't tell me about the depression. I have a history of it, but have been ok for five years, if this brings it back I don't know what i'll do. This board has made me feel so much better.

26year old married female receiveing lupron injections once a month to treat endometriosis. I am due for my third shot next week.

The side effects in the first month were minimal with the exception of my taste buds. I cannot stand to eat anything that looks like, tastes like, or smells like chicken or beef. I am only eating cheese and bread. I can deal with hot flashes.

Second month - UNBELIEVABLE SIDE EFFECTS!!!

*New found love for chocolate (I never liked it before).
*Still screwed up taste buds. I am SOOO hungry all the time.
*Severe constipation, which has led to rectal bleeding.
*Once a day hot flashes have turned into an hourly thing.
*I get up in the morning drenched with sweat - yet freezing cold.
*SEVERE DEPRESSION!!! I am normally a very friendly person. Now I hate everyone and everything.
*Crying all the time.
*Attempted suicide for no apparrent reason 3 days after 2nd shot.
*Loss of interest in things I once enjoyed.
*Insomnia. I can't sleep, yet I have no energy.
*Very moody.
*Muscular and joint pain.
*Memory loss.
*My equilibrium is off. Constantly walking into walls and such.
*Paranoid and scared all the time.
*Weight gain.
*Blurred/double vision.
*Headaches.

I want the endometriosis to go away and I want to be able to get pregnant (been trying for 6 years). But I don't know if I can deal with these side effects anymore!!

headaches, insomnia, hot flashes, EXTREME fatugie, muscle weakness, hair loss, weight gain

INSOMNIA!(Even months after being off of Lupron) and Sleep Disorders! Trouble being able to sleep deeply,always feeling like I never get enough satisfying,depth of sleep, can sleep best in morning hours, from around 7am till 1pm.

severe joint pain especially on the hips, weight gain head aches, neck pain, overall muscle and body ache, difficulty breathing and insomnia.