Lupron Depot and Fatigue: What Users Say

• mik...
• September 17, 2009

For Prostate Cancer "I've been on Lupron (after prostate surgery) for a period of 7-1/2 years. I am also on 50mg Casodex. The side effects are minor (hot sweats, decreased energy). Injection sites were moved after 6 years from buttocks to shoulders due to lower back pain. I hope this gives hope to patients about to begin this regimen."

• WWI...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 7, 2014

For Prostate Cancer "Had my first injection of Lupron 7.5 mg in July, second injection at the same dosage is set for August 21. So far no hot flashes or side effects. Have been taking Casodex simultaneously (30-day supply) which will end shortly. Only side effect from that initially was fatigue, which resolved after 5 days. Decided to insist on 1-month Lupron injections instead of a 3-6 month extended dose as PC support group participants on the once-a-month dose had far fewer side effects. I'm sticking to my guns on this one, MD tried to give me a 6-month dose right off the bat. I'm switching MDs and glad I did it this way. Hope this helps others."

• Mar...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• October 28, 2019

For Prostate Cancer "On Lupron beginning July 2017. Now 2019 and still on a 3-month dose. I experience all the known side effects, and it is not much fun. I am 66 years old and have advanced prostate cancer stage 3. My PSA is undetectable since surgery and 40 radiation treatments. Hot flashes, weight gain, fatigue, tingle in feet, itching, impotence, and bone aches. PSA is still undetectable...going off Lupron in May 2020...we will see what happens then."

• Lex...
• October 5, 2015

For Endometriosis "Don't do it! I got the 3-month shot 1 month ago and have had these symptoms so far: constant and severe pelvic pain, sharp lower back pain, pain when the bladder is full and when emptying, lots of migraines and headaches, nausea, vomiting, high anxiety, extreme fatigue, very low mood swings, loss of appetite, and insomnia. The worst symptom of all is the severe depression, I have had several thoughts of suicide. I would rather deal with just the pain than all of these together. I was told by my doctor the only symptom I would get is hot flashes, and she had only heard of success stories with this drug, that was a total lie. If you react badly with other birth controls, do not do Lupron, it's a living nightmare!"

• Woo...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• April 9, 2020

For Prostate Cancer "I’m a 66-year-old male who was diagnosed with moderately aggressive prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 8 and PSA of 7.2. I’ve had 2 Lupron injections, which have caused the following side effects: a chemical smell, muscle weakness, hot flashes, fatigue, PSA -"

• Kri...
• February 18, 2020

For Endometriosis "Ok y’all, I admit before taking Lupron Depot 11.25 mg, 3-month injection; I read every review I could find. I was disappointed to find mainly negative reviews, but I took a leap of faith and decided to get the injection anyway. Within the first month, I truly regret that decision. In tough situations, I typically look for the silver lining. However, I was not prepared for the extreme fatigue (no more 5 a.m. workouts), hot flashes all day, every day, night sweats that literally leave my side of the bed soaked (it’s totally gross), but the topper is body aching and hurting down to my muscles and bones like I have the flu... every day going on 63 days straight. I am 38 years old, in good shape, active when I started the injection. I was 115 lbs; I am now 130 lbs with no energy. Needless to say, I am declining the second treatment and look forward to 2-6 months when all of the side effects should fully wear off and hopefully get my normal life back."

• Kat...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 4, 2019

For Uterine Fibroids "I had the Lupron shot on 1st July 2019 for fibroids. It was fine for the first 2 weeks. Just slight breast soreness and general signs like I was gonna get my period. After the first 2 weeks, I started getting hot flashes, fatigue, and memory loss. Had a lot of problems recalling thoughts. I never bled since I had the shot, which was weird. I thought I'd get one last major period or something. I had surgery to remove my fibroid in early September. The fibroid never shrank. Guess the jab didn't work on me. I'm still getting the hot flashes, and the body aches, as well as fatigue, has gotten worse. I also gained weight! I found the drug increased my appetite. I still haven't gotten my period yet. Kind of happy about that but worried my hormones are all messed up. For reference, I'm 40 years old."

• duc...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 11, 2021

For Prostate Cancer "I have been on Lupron for 6 months (2 of the three-month injections). This drug is very effective in slowing the prostate cancer growth. Testosterone is the fuel for PC. My testosterone level went from 840 to 11 in three weeks after my first injection! However, there surely are side effects. Mine are: 1. Fatigue and low energy with breathlessness upon exercise. 2. Hot flashes. 3. Low red blood cell count (anemia). 4. Lack of sexual desire and unable to perform. 5. Shrunken testicles and penis. The side effects are frustrating...but you can tough them out. God has given me strength, and without my faith...this would be much tougher. My wife has been an angel with her constant support. Good luck!"

• duc...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 11, 2021

For Prostate Cancer "I have been on Lupron for 6 months (2 of the three-month injections). This drug is very effective in slowing the prostate cancer growth. Testosterone is the fuel for PC. My testosterone level went from 840 to 11 in three weeks after my first injection! However, there surely are side effects. Mine are: 1. Fatigue and low energy with breathlessness upon exercise. 2. Hot flashes. 3. Low red blood cell count (anemia). 4. Lack of sexual desire and unable to perform. 5. Shrunken testicles and penis. The side effects are frustrating...but you can tough them out. God has given me strength, and without my faith...this would be much tougher. My wife has been an angel with her constant support. Good luck!"

• Mel...
• September 27, 2018

For Endometriosis "I had severe cervical dysplasia requiring a portion of my cervix to be removed, chronic pain, PCOS, and was diagnosed with severe endometriosis following laparoscopic removal of many adhesions from my uterus and scarring of my ovaries. My OB recommended I do six to nine months of Depot Lupron after my laparoscopy to keep the endo at bay and help reduce scarring. I started out with the one-month shot and felt okay, a little achy, and some hot flashes. I went back to get the three-month shot. I was miserable, but my OB really pushed me to keep going with it. I am on my second three-month shot, and I am not me anymore. I am moody, extremely depressed, my bones hurt, I've gained 20 lbs, I'm fatigued, anxious, have insomnia, headaches, and have had horrible gastrointestinal symptoms. It is ruining my marriage. My work performance has suffered. I am foggy and forgetful. Everything is an effort. I will not be getting the last shot and hope this hasn't caused irreversible damage!"

• Anonymous
• April 3, 2012

For Endometriosis "I got my first dose a month ago. The main side effects I am experiencing are hot flashes, much decreased appetite (not complaining there), and fatigue. I will take all those any day rather than deal with endometriosis pain. So I am definitely pleased with the Lupron treatment. It's nice to not be in so much pain. I would call off work and stay in bed and cry. So big difference!"

• Me2...
• August 31, 2018

For Endometriosis "Took the 3-month Lupron Depot shot just one time. It's now 3 months since I had the shot. My reasons for taking this poison are due to extreme PMDD condition, which I also have endo, but the PMDD outweighs! So all my symptoms since the very first week of the injection have been severe hot flashes, night sweats, more fatigue, whole body aches. Just in the last month, my hair has been falling out! Very dry, thin now - I'm extremely moodier than before. This was the worst thing I've done, and I'm super mad at all these doctors who really have no clue what they're doing to people. We are all their guinea pigs. I went 4 days ago to the doctor, and he put me on Primaire (hormone replacement). I'm waiting in misery to see if this added med helps. So far, the new med has had me in tears every day for no reason, a massive migraine, and overall losing my mind! Never ever take Lupron! Just do an internet search on Lupron victims."

• Sad...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 14, 2023

For Prostate Cancer "My husband cannot comment, as he died 5 years ago. He was diagnosed with stage 3 prostate cancer. He also had radiation treatments. He suffered from fatigue, depression, and insomnia. Radiation caused damage to the urethra. His prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test was low while on Lupron Depot, but he was miserable and committed suicide. It would have been nice to have an alternative treatment. He didn’t want to live that way."

• Jen...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 20, 2020

For Uterine Fibroids "This is user Jennybean from the review below (August 12, 2020). I could not log in with that username, so here's my update: I got my first injection on 08/14/20. Ultimately, I am getting the 3 month 11.25 MG Kit. So I assume I will get 2 more shots. I got the shot in my butt cheek and it did not hurt or flare up. The side effects for me so far: a couple of short-lived hot flashes here and there. Fatigue and my boobs are sore (like before a period and wearing a bra sucks as a result). These effects are medium-mild and are not overwhelming. I'd say the fatigue and breast tenderness are the most bothersome. I expect I will be adding to my list of side effects as we go on. The last thing I'll add is that my biggest fibroid is 7 cm and my uterus never shrunk after I had my preemie son at 28 weeks pregnant. So basically, I still look six months pregnant 6 years later. That's why I'm on this medicine. I need to shrink my uterus and fibroid in order to have a less invasive partial hysterectomy (leaving my ovaries)."

• Woo...
• March 29, 2023

For Prostate Cancer "Been on Lupron now for 3 1/2 years. I’m 84 years old with metastatic prostate cancer. Lupron did take my PSA from 196 to almost zero. However, I have all the side effects… fatigue, hot flashes, ED, and a 13-pound weight gain around the middle. I’m alive but have very little quality of life. There are new studies showing that very high doses of testosterone (I know it sounds crazy) have been shown to reverse the cancer and give men a much better quality of life. I’m going for a new treatment soon as the Lupron is starting to fail as my PSA is creeping up. My advice is if you can avoid Lupron, do it at all costs. Your life will change with the first shot."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 5, 2018

For Endometriosis "Within one week of starting Depot Lupron, I was struck with severe headaches and fatigue. Muscle and joint pain set in, and sleep became impossible. I have had no relief from my endometriosis pain. Pelvic pain is daily and constant. Dull aches in my lower abdomen and sharp shooting pain through my colon. Even with add-back therapy, I have had hot flashes and severe waves of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. I wish I had never gotten it. This is the second time my doctor has put me on this 'medication' with zero results or relief from my symptoms. I only feel worse. It has made me and my relationship suffer. It's not worth it."

• Tri...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 21, 2018

For Endometriosis "I just started the Lupron shot, and so far it's helping, but it's also come along with hot flashes, dizziness, prolonged QT heart interval (I already have the heart problem, but it is amplifying it), body pain which is slowly going down, brain fog, insomnia, fatigue, inability to breathe, and is making some of my connective tissue symptoms worse. I'm hoping at least some of these symptoms go away. If they do, I will continue the monthly shots since the endo symptoms are getting better (headache, bowel issues, insane amount of bleeding every month, and debilitating pain)."

• fat...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 1, 2023

For Prostate Cancer "Tried Lupron Depot every 3 months two times, but severe fatigue, occasional dizziness, and passed out. Side effects were not acceptable to me. Orgovyx + Xtandi is much better. Although, without testosterone: fatigue, no erection, lack of enthusiasm, and weight gain."

• fat...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 1, 2023

For Prostate Cancer "Tried Lupron Depot every 3 months two times, but severe fatigue, occasional dizziness, and passed out. Side effects were not acceptable to me. Orgovyx + Xtandi is much better. Although, without testosterone: fatigue, no erection, lack of enthusiasm, and weight gain."

• Rob...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• November 20, 2024

For Prostate Cancer "Prostate normal at last checkup. Dosing sequence: 1 month, 3 months, 6 months x 3. Experiencing joint pain in shoulders, hips, knees, and periodic sharp pains in the head and neck area. Random stabbing pains in the left thigh and feet as if being jabbed with a large needle. Moderate to severe swelling in the feet and lower legs. Frequent hot flashes. Frequent intestinal issues. Frequent need to urinate. Extreme fatigue. Irritability."

• Ric...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 8, 2024

For Prostate Cancer "Some hot flashes for short periods when thinking hard and only for maybe 2 or 3 minutes. Zero sex drive. Maybe joint pain. Maybe less energy. PSA at 0.25 after 3 or 4 months. There is some merit in not wanting to have sex often for that has been cured."

• Chu...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 19, 2023

For Prostate Cancer "76YO. Got Bicalutamide pills and a Lupron shot twice before my 'High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)' operation to kill my prostate in 2019. Fatigue was my worst side effect. Did serious and intense Max Gerson Cancer Protocol therapy for three years. Totally off alcohol and mostly vegetarian. Mostly no carbs. Lost twenty pounds. When PSA started creeping up, my urologist put me on strictly Bicalutamide pills once a day (50mg). Negligible PSA for almost two years until tender breast and some enlargement took me off it. Been off for six months and back to normal in every way, including testosterone. PSA is creeping up again, and I think I will go back to the pills but only once or twice a week and see how my PSA does. I get the PSA checked every other month. I feel very good."

• Gio...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 22, 2025

For Prostate Cancer "I have had a prostatectomy followed by biochemical recurrence, and my physician recommended one year of Lupron Depot and 45 sessions of external beam radiation, provided simultaneously. I selected the 3-month injection due to reports of possibly fewer side effects. I am nearly finished with my first 3-month Lupron injection and only have 15 more radiation sessions. Side effects from Lupron have been extremely minimal. I had no injection site reaction or pain. I experienced body heat at times, especially when sleeping, but it has been minimal. I just have to remove my sweatshirt or uncover in bed. I do keep my bedroom cooler, and this helps. I have been dizzy but had dizziness before the Lupron or external beam radiation upon getting up from a seated position. Walking required me to slow down due to mild dizziness. I work out daily with free weights, 100 crunches, and 20-30 minutes on a stationary bike, and I firmly believe that this has helped. I had fatigue with exercise for the first week."

• Anonymous
• November 17, 2009

For Uterine Fibroids "Hot flashes throughout the day; moodiness and moderate depression, and moderate fatigue."

• Ral...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• December 4, 2024

For Prostate Cancer "Hot flashes, fatigue, headache, blurry vision, and dizziness. When I get the hot flashes, it lasts for two to three minutes. I can deal with the side effects because they're not severe."