In terms of applying Emla, the guidance I received (which seems to work) is to apply it (a couple of small squeezes from the tiny tube) about an hour before the appointment time. I'm lucky in that I attend a small GP nurse practice so usually get seen on time. Rub the cream lightly into the area of the proposed injection site then cover the Emla cream with a plaster - I'm given ones with a plastic window (not sure if the'se make any difference).
Interesting that your nurse Bob2 provides the cream, it's only issued via prescription at my practice; I usually order a new tube at the time of my Zolodex prescription, every couple of times. The routine helps.
Regards timings, my nurse makes a decision around safety rather than cost. She said there's some evidence that having the next dose before the 4 weeks are up can increase the chances of side effects. I've not pressed her on what the SEs are, but it doesn't matter, because the GP would not authorise it early anyway.
I've found the Zolodex really increased my hot flushes. I tried Clonodine for a while, but it didn't work. I'm now on Gabapentin which seems much more effective for me.
Personally I'm very grateful for being given the opportunity to take Zolodex as well as Tamoxifen as I'm in a higher risk group for reccurance, so want to take as many meds and as precautions as I can to reduce that risk.
Although I've been told that it's usual to only be prescribed Zolodex for two years, my onc has said I should have it for five years. There's some research, I think, which is looking into optimum treatment lengths. Have not yet had a chance to look for this, hope to when I have the time!
Victoria
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