Generic Name: Zoladex (goserelin)
For Endometriosis "I took this drug for three months (one injection per month) following a laparoscopy to remove scars and endometriosis. I read about the reviews (gaining weight, etc.) and was really nervous, but I just wanted to tell everyone taking this treatment to not worry about the side effects. The only side effect I had was a heavy period at first (nothing scary), and then I had hot flashes and some night sweats, but nothing unbearable. Get a small pajama (shorts and tank top) to avoid feeling so hot at night. Emotionally I was ok and lost weight!!! I actually gained 4 pounds after the treatment when my ovaries reactivated. During this treatment, I exercised a lot, ate well, and tried to stay relaxed. Please do not be scared of using this medication..."
For Endometriosis "I was worried about using Zoladex when suggested by my gynecologist as I had read a lot about the negative side effects. I felt I needed to share my experience as I have suffered terribly with endo for over 15 years and had debilitating pain daily for the last 4 of those. Zoladex is the first and only thing that has ever worked in relieving me of my crippling endo symptoms. While on Zoladex, I have no flare-ups, no pain, no periods (so no heavy blood loss), no fatigue, and no brain fog. It's been so amazing for me that I want to shout it from the rooftops! I must advise, though, that after the first month on Zoladex, I started getting very intense hot flushes and some insomnia, but I was then prescribed Livial to take alongside the Zoladex, and now I feel amazing! The hot flushes ceased as soon as I started taking Livial, and I just wish I could take this combination forever, and I am dreading the day I have to come off Zoladex as I had forgotten how wonderful it is to feel healthy."
For Endometriosis "I was diagnosed with endometriosis at 19. I am now 43 and have had 2 laps with laser. My gynecologist told me I would never have children, but I went on to have 3 boys. I had a hysterectomy 3 years ago, oophorectomy with cyst 2 years ago, and a second oophorectomy with cyst 1 year ago - 3 operations in the last 3 years! I wanted a total hysterectomy, but my obstetrician refused. My endo is worse than ever. Please think twice before having a hysterectomy because, like in my case, it doesn't cure endo. I now have severe endo all over my bowel and it's still growing. They refuse to operate anymore due to the number of operations I've had. I am now trying Zoladex. The depression and mood swings are really bad. The worst part of endo is that it's an 'invisible' illness. I feel like no one cares because your leg isn't falling off or you don't have a plaster cast anywhere."
For Endometriosis "I had endometriosis and adenomyosis and suffered from severe pains and heavy bleeding. I used to end up in the hospital because the pains were unbearable. They used to give me morphine and other strong painkillers. I was advised to have hysterectomy but I had decided to try Zoladex. After 2 injections within 3 months, my period became painless and the bleeding became lighter. I haven't been to the hospital for period problems for nearly 2 years now and the lump in my uterus (adenomyosis) which I could feel on my lower stomach disappeared. I would like to share this because Zoladex really helped me and cured me and have avoided to have hysterectomy."
For Endometriosis "Zoladex was my lifesaver. I was due for a hysterectomy in March because I had severe endometriosis, multiple fibroids, and a bleeding disorder. My gyn decided to put me on Zoladex for 6 months after my keyhole surgery in order to shrink the womb, fibroids, and manage my endo condition to make my upcoming surgery easy for them, as all reproductive organs were glued together due to endometriosis. But surgery was canceled as my condition improved. No periods for 13 months, never felt so good in 18 years. Celebrated menopause, and bang, the period showed up, but so manageable as I had slight cramps on the first day and no pains till now on my third. Normal bleeding, unlike the previous flooding I used to have. Hoping to go for more shots after my period, as I pray my gyn will continue Zoladex for me. Yes, I experienced menopausal symptoms but was happy with them all, as I preferred the hot flushes and co to losing so much blood from endometriosis pains and blood loss. Thank you, God, I believe I now have a life."
For Prostate Cancer "In January 2009, my prostate cancer had metastasized into both ischia (pelvis). My PSA was 33. I was prescribed Casodex as a forerunner to Zoladex LA to avoid tumor flare. I was then lucky because I managed to rid myself of the secondary cancer by June 2009. I had a total of 15 implants of Zoladex LA over the last 3¼ years, and after my bone scan still showed an 'image clear,' my urologist allowed me to discontinue any future treatment for the time being but keeping a careful watch on my PSA, which most recently was down to 0.270, and the testosterone level down to 0.2. I am now in my 5th week since the end of the last 12-week cycle, and I am due to have a blood test in 3 days' time. I felt very few side effects at any time."
For Prostate Cancer "I had very aggressive prostate cancer that led to a radical prostatectomy, but they didn't get all the cancer. Seven weeks of radiation, and the PSA was down to 0.04. It crept up slowly, but when it started doubling every 2-3 months, I was put on Zoladex. Although I have hot flushes and am struggling to maintain fitness and strength, the side effects are minor compared to dying of cancer! My PSA has now dropped back to undetectable."
For Endometriosis "I am halfway through my Zoladex treatment, and it has been an absolute godsend for my pain. I'm not in any pain at all, which is exactly what I wanted. However, I am struggling with the side effects: hot flashes, headaches, weakness, night sweats, tiredness, and bone pain. I was struggling to get through the day before the treatment, and now I have these other problems to deal with. I am torn about how I feel about it. I would definitely recommend it though, as everyone has different levels of these symptoms; I might just be a bad case."
For Endometriosis "Brittle nails, hair loss, severe depression, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, skin rash, hot flushes, sleepless nights, short temperament, intolerance to alcohol, joint pains, nausea, fatigue, IBS, low libido, painful sex... This drug compromised my mental well-being for a few months of pain relief, it cost me my relationship and almost my job, not worth it at all!"
For Prostate Cancer "My partner has been on and off Zoladex for nearly 6 years, with PSA first detected at 4000 and soaring between 0 - 600 - 50, but with 12-month breaks in treatment. He takes a regime of ganoderma mushroom extract, he believes this has also helped him stay very healthy and free of cancer symptoms. The only side effects and illness he suffers is from Zoladex. It probably has contributed to saving his life, but it has changed that life forever. He has huge mood swings, confusion, memory loss, fatigue, total loss of sexual function. In short, it keeps him alive but keeps him alive and completely altered. If you have low testosterone levels, then the side effects are mild. If you have high levels, it is personality changing."
For Endometriosis "Well, I have had 2 Zoladex injections. As my gynecologist said – symptoms will appear only after 4 weeks. Well, guess what – mine appeared only after the fourth day! Yep! And I have had all the symptoms. These 8 weeks have been the worst in my life. I have had: hot flashes – so bad during every night that my pillow and blanket are soaking wet, sweating, headaches, dizziness, mood changes, vaginal discharge – meaning a little bit of pee coming into my undies (sometimes not so little bit) – when I do not feel like I have to pee! Breast size reduction, bone pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, insomnia, acne, itching, and depression mood swings that are just so bad. Plus, my stomach has been so bloated, so gassy, so not functioning normally. The worst time in my entire life!!! I would never in a million years ever agree to this again. Better to be with endometriosis - as guess what, this does not cure it!!! So – might be all for nothing."
For Endometriosis "I have severe endometriosis. By the time I was 16, the pain was so bad I just lay on the floor in a ball for days in agony. I became resistant/allergic to painkillers, got a DVT from the pill, was told I was too young for a hysterectomy. Every year, the pain reached further. After trying every possible treatment, I was prescribed Zoladex and a calcium supplement (when I was 24). To begin with, I got hot flushes when I wore work shirts - but that's no big deal. I have now gone 14 years without a single symptom - no bleeding, no pain. What I have is an active life, a full-time job - I'm a functional human being! Never thought it possible, can't thank them enough."
For Endometriosis "I was on Zoladex for endometriosis for 3 months. The pain has almost gone. No major side effects except hot flushes. Approx about 1-2 an hour, which affects me especially at night. Low mood now and then, and slight weight gain, which can be fixed with exercise. All symptoms were manageable and worth it for no pain."
For Endometriosis "I've been on Zoladex for 8 months now, I'm just having my 9th injection this week. Positive effects: endometriosis is not inflamed anymore, which increases chances of getting pregnant. No periods, therefore no pain. Side effects: where do I start? The worst is significant weight gain, tiredness, hot flushes, sleepless nights, and low energy levels. Plus, no sex drive whatsoever. But anything to have a baby."
For Breast Cancer, Palliative "I am 32 years old, and I have to take Zoladex for 3 years with the medicine Tamoxifen for 5 years. I have been on Zoladex for about a year now. Some of my side effects include severe mood swings, hot flashes, loss of menstrual cycle, weight gain (28 pounds so far), loss of energy, swelling of hands, and forgetfulness."
For Prostate Cancer "I had radical prostate surgery some 22 years ago. Was checked regularly for PSA levels and they were good (0.1 to 0.3) for many years. About two years ago the PSA jumped to 5.0 and was 17.8 prior to taking Zoladex. The PSA level dropped to 0.6 and my testosterone level went from 1.9 to 0.4. Unfortunately, I had many side effects which included swollen hands, knuckles, and wrists; extreme pain in my shoulders, and a very lethargic feeling. I have lost a significant amount of strength and have little ambition to exercise as the pain in my shoulders and hands is too great. I used to play a lot of golf, but now have little desire. My medical team is taking me off Zoladex after two injections because of the side effects. Will be starting my radiation treatment soon. Hopefully, I can recover and get back to a normal life. The Zoladex did do its job, but there were consequences."
For Endometriosis "I’m on my 5th out of 6 monthly implants and am unlikely to be swayed to go on Zoladex again as the side effects - particularly severe joint pain, extreme mood drops and chronic fatigue - are more difficult for me to cope with than the endo. I had a recent diagnosis Stage 4 endometriosis and adenomyosis, so the Zoladex implants were prescribed by a leading surgeon after he performed successful excision surgery and removed the left ovary. The Zoladex is used in conjunction with a Mirena. Within the first month of treatment I was having hot flushes and consistent low grade headaches so then was also prescribed Livial to deal with those side effects. I was being treated for anxiety and depression before the Zoladex, but my psychiatrist doubled the dose of Citelapram to 40mg about three months in to deal with the sudden mood drops. I feel like I’ve been hurdling into menopause and am ageing rapidly beyond my 42 years."
For Endometriosis "Having finished 8 rounds of Zoladex implants at the tender age of 20 for endometriosis I have (16 weeks after my last injection) restarted my periods! I have been in and out of hospital since 13, having countless operations to try and find the cause of my pain! Hospitalised every month during my period due to extreme pain until my doctor put me on Zoladex! I never wanted it to end, the no pain and period free life was much more appealing than continuous hospital appointments and anxiety over when my monthly was coming! The implant was initially painful however worth it to ease the pain. Bar routine check ups and going for the injection I haven’t been hospitalised since starting the treatment! Probably the best decision I made and also suffered few side effects which was even better!"
For Prostate Cancer "Seems to have worked well in reducing cancer/PSA. Minimal side effects except for both hands. Both hands are painful when moved, and big knuckles can be very hurtful when holding an object. Warmth helps, as does minimizing hand movements. Can hold a tennis ball without problems, a golf ball with some effort and pain, and a pen or small object can be a big problem to grasp."
For Endometriosis "I have stage 4 endometriosis and have had laparoscopic surgery to remove it from my pelvis/abdomen, but I also have it throughout my bowel, and it has penetrated all the way through. My doctor has put me on Zoladex for 9 months, and I am on month 4. It has helped to manage my pain so far, initially, it had taken virtually all of the pain away, but within the last month, it has slowly been resurfacing, but it is still better than when I don't take it at all. The hot flashes, flushing, slight weight gain, night sweats, trouble sleeping, muscle aches, moodiness, anxiety, vaginal dryness, and lack of sex drive are all bothersome, but it beats being in constant pain, and I know that the symptoms are temporary. I would definitely recommend Zoladex for endometriosis pain."
For Bleeding Disorder "I had a very positive experience using Zoladex. I was very frightened of having the injections after reading the reviews and almost didn’t take the medication. But I was told that it was required before surgery for a hysterectomy (due to fibroids) in order to minimise blood loss. I had two doses and both injections were fine. The nurses knew what they were doing and were quick at doing it. No side effects for me. My periods stopped after first dose. Great! By the time of surgery my fibroids had shrunk! Surgery went well. Everyone’s experience with this medication will be different. Do your research, know the pros and cons. Be aware of these bad experiences but don’t let them put you off. I was happy and the medication really helped me with my condition. Wishing you all the best."
For Endometriosis "I was on Zoladex for nearly 2 years, and I recently had to stop because my doctor chose to take me off. I absolutely loved it! No period for almost 2 years! I had hot flashes and have a scar on my stomach from the injections, but it was totally worth it. My periods have finally come back, and I wish I were still on this miracle medicine."
For Endometriosis "The horrible side effects (even with HRT) were not worth it. The hot flashes, joint pain, mood swings, depression and long-term effects on my bones were NOT worth it. I really wish doctors would stop trying to give me this as it only does harm. Endometriosis can only be helped by EXCISION by a skilled surgeon, and will only last for up to a few years. Please stop getting doctors to postpone proper treatment with this."
For Endometriosis "After being diagnosed with stage 4 endo and fibroids, my OBGYN started 6 months of zoladex. I was told it would be a good month before I felt any difference- but I had the hot flushes come on after about 7 days. The overall effects were amazing. No heavy bleeding and clotting, and no pain which would normally totally disable me. The side effects I experienced were intense. Hot flushes every 40 minutes, I just wanted to strip off. Interrupted sleep, teeth pain, joint pain... After 3 months I called my obgyn who is a fantastic man and he sent me a script for a tiny dose of oestrogen to lessen the symptoms. What a difference that made- nearly no symptoms. I’ve been off the injections for about 4 weeks now and have just got my first period- thought it would be at least 8-12 weeks before it came back. Zoladex is great - just make sure you definitely follow up with side effects, and don’t just ‘suffer’ them - it is so worth having the injections!!"
For Endometriosis "I have been put on Zoladex 3.6 by my Gyno. The first few weeks I thought it was a god send! It stopped my Endo pains and stopped my period.... But then I started suffering from migraine/headaches, no sex drive, extreme bone pain, NO APPETITE - and if I try to make myself eat then I vomit, nausea, irregular sleeping patterns and signs of anxiety/depression because I've been missing days off of work! I'm due for my 4th injection in two days and the whole treatment plan I am on is for 6 months. I have never felt this sick in my whole life :( is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Can someone help me?"
Zoladex 3-Month
