FEmISA - Fibroid Embolization: Information, Support & Advice
      

Drug Treatments FAQ   

GONADORELIN ANALOGUES TREATMENT FAQ

How do they work?

The symptoms caused by fibroids tend to diminish after menopause as blood flow to the uterus and fibroids decreases and the fibroids subsequently shrink.

There are a number of drugs that will mimic menopause by blocking the hormone (gonadotrophin releasing hormone GnRH) that is responsible for the production of oestrogen, the female hormone.  These are known as gonadorelin analogues or GnRH agonists.

They induce rapid menopause by blocking oestrogen production with the result that the blood levels to the fibroid drop and the fibroids get smaller, as they would after menopause.

This is only a temporary treatment for fibroids, sometimes used to reduce them before surgery or menopause.  However, drugs should not be used for longer than 6 months. 

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What are the side effects?

The side effects can be extremely unpleasant, which is why some gynaecologists do not use these drugs.  They mimic menopausal symptoms -

  •   Hot flushes

  •   Increased sweating

  •   Memory loss

  •   Vaginal dryness

  •   Loss of libido

  •   Difficult or painful sexual intercourse

  •   A decrease in bone density

  •   Headache

  •   Hypersensitivity reactions including skin rashes and asthma

  •   Nose bleeds from nasal sprays

  •   Changes in breast size and breast tenderness

  •   Vision disturbances

  •   Weight changes

  •   Mood swings and depression

  •   High blood pressure

  •   Diabetes

  •   Palpitations

  •   Insomnia

  •   Vaginitis

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How effective is it?

Drug treatment is only a temporary measure before surgery.  Fibroids will return to their normal size 24 weeks after treatment stops.

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Questions to ask your doctor

  •   What are the short-term side effects?

  •   What are the long-term side effects?

  •   How will it affect my ability to think, organise and do my job?

  •   What could go wrong?

  •   Will it have any effect on my sex life?

  •   Will I be able to become pregnant?

  •   How will it affect my periods and menopause?

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Last updated: 12 Apr 2004