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Anastrozole

Evajean
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I had my post op appt today and was told that the tumour removed had clear margins and lymph node was clear too. So I will have five days of radiotherapy and have been prescribed Anastrozole. I have osteoporosis and have been taking biophosphates for three years.  My consultant is aware of this. On reading the leaflet on Anastrozole it says it causes bone thinning. Is it safe for me to take or is there a different Hormone Therapy that would be more suitable.  I have already had a fracture to my spine so don’t want to make my bones any worse.

  • Hi Evajean, my name is Anne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses from the  Support Line. I see you are already a member of the Breast Cancer forum. I hope you will find it both welcoming and supportive.

    I understand you are concerned about taking Anastrozole, which has been recommended as part of your treatment plan. Living with osteoporosis, it’s natural that you would have some concerns. It would certainly be worth having another chat with your Consultant about the effects on bone health, to ensure you fully understand both the benefits and risks. You may also wish to have a discussion with your GP about monitoring your bone health and ways of reducing further bone loss. Although lifestyle changes cannot reverse osteoporosis, it may be possible to stop it from getting any worse.

    I hope this information is helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if there is anything else we can help with.

    Take care for now,

    Anne - 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/**  KHa

  • in reply to Anne - Macmillan

    Thank you so much for your message. I spoke with my GP today and he thought I would be ok as I am already taking biophosphates. I will start taking it and if any more concerns will ask at my oncology appointment. I am due a Dexa scan in about 18 months.

    Kind regards

    Evajean

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