Lupron shots in premenop?

[crazy2kayak]

I'm 38 years old. Had a lumpectomy, 1.7cm tumor, 2 pos SN, 1 pos ax node, stage IIa, Grade 1. I'm currently on TAC reg., then radiation, then Tamox. My oncologist also wants me to do Lupron shots afterwards. My question is---how much is gained by ensuring I stay permanently menopausal? Is there any real evidence that women benefit from shutting down their ovaries, or is it theoretical? I understand the rationale. Some women say their oncologist recommends against it. I mean, if Tamoxifen blocks the receptors, wouldn't the cost / benefit risk be proportional? I mean the health issues that go along with menopause?

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear crazy2kayak:  These are very good questions and the reason why this is a subject of ongoing research. Since we do not know the true risks and benefits of adding ovarian ablation to tamoxifen or the relative value of using an aromatase inhibitor (instead of tamoxifen) along with ovarian ablation, there are several studies going on in the U.S. and elsewhere to attempt to answer these questions. You may wish to discuss with your oncologist whether any of these clinical trials are available at your center.

[crazy2kayak]

Does your facility have a specific recommendation (I'm ER+ / PR + Her2-, no family history, BRCA -) to your patients in a similar situation at this time? Or do you give the options to the patient and let them decide?