Hello,
Just wanted to know whether the side effects of antihormone therapy get better in time? What experiences Do you have? I have severe depression and anxiety and antidepressants don't work. But I have to take antihormone meds because I am a high risk Patient. I have already tried letrozole and Tamoxifen. Now on exemestane. I should take abemaciclib alongside with it but cannot take it due to the side effects
.
Regards
Destiny
Welcome to the Online Community here at Macmillan. I hope you find it a helpful place to access support and ask questions. My name is Vanessa and I am one of the information nurses.
From the information you give I am assuming that you are taking hormone therapy for breast cancer. Hormone therapies reduce the risk of cancer returning but do unfortunately have side effects. These side effects may gradually reduce but some do not. If side effects don’t decrease and are having an impact on your quality of life normal practice is to move to an alternative hormone therapy drug. I can see from your post that you have already done this.
Exemestane has similar side effects to letrozole and tamoxifen. Its important to remember however that even though you have experienced side effects whilst talking letrozole and tamoxifen you may not experience similar side effects with exemestane.
Depression and anxiety can be common in people living with the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment. Macmillan Big Health offers immediate access to online mental health support including an App which can help with anxiety.
Anxiety UK offer support and advice through various ways including a support line, support groups and a calm club. I am sure you are aware mind offer similar services for people with depression.
I see from your profile that you have joined our online breast cancer group. Many people find the peer support of others in similar circumstances reassuring to have.
I hope you find this information helpful. You can also always call one of our nurses directly if you want to talk over your concerns or require any further support.
Take care
Vanessa G, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref VG/PH
