Anastrozole

hi 

ive just started this tablet a few days ago and told i need to have a bone density scan too x

Hi Casput , I’ve been taking Anastrozole for 2 and a half years, thibk my diagnosis is similar to yours if you click on my profile. I don’t love them but I hope they’re keeping the beast at bay, and intend to keep taking them for as long as they’re deemed of benefit to me. I’d try not to preempt side effects as some people seem to have none! I can’t say that’s the case for me and I struggled going back to work, but thankfully was able to retire earlier than planned so no longer have that to contend with. 

I’ve found that since retiring I can do the things I want to (mainly walking) and can deal with my particular side effects through some lifestyle adjustments. And I’ve learned to say no! 

Good luck with it all, love and hugs, HFxx

HI Casput

I agree with HappyFeet1, don't pre-empt symptoms.  I nearly decided not to take them having seen what awful side effects could occur, but decided to give them a bash.

As it is, I'm 4 years down the line and I think the only side effects I've had is very occasionally an ache in my knee and I think my hair condition isn't as good as it used to be! 

If you get bad side effects, then try different brands.  I had a different brand once and boy! did it make a difference.  I'm on Accord now.

Best wishes,

Lesley

Hi and thanks for such a helpful reply. Can I ask if you had chemo because that’s what I am so concerned about. I don’t want to have chemo, I just want to get on with living. Any thoughts would bepful

Hi Casput, I didn’t have chemo so can’t comment on that, sorry. But lots of folk here have had it so plenty of experience to draw on. Difficult decision, I can’t say for sure what I’d have done but I think I’d want to chuck everything at it so I didn’t have any ‘what ifs’ at a later stage. But that’s easy to say when you don’t have to make that choice. Xxx

Hello Casput

ive taken anastrozole for seven years. Like previous folk I’ve tried not to focus on the side effects you may have and have tried to have a ‘thank you’ mindset and say ‘thank you’ every time I take the pill.

I was 55 when I started taking the drug and newly married. It has definitely affected my sex drive and this is something not always covered in forums! Of course this may not be an important factor for you.

brands do make a difference so find one that works for you snd make sure it is specified on your prescription - for me it’s Teva.

I also make sure I have a really healthy diet with lots of vitamin D snd calcium / I’ve also requested scans every two years for my bone density which always comes back fine.

good luck with whatever you decide

jane x