Anastrozole

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Hello,

I have been taking anastrozole for almost two and half years.  Ive read many posts and websites and all including my oncologist said that side effects ease after a few months of starting.  My side effects seem to be getting worse.  I am really struggling at the moment.  I am extremely fatigued and tired all the time, no energy at all and simple daily tasks are becoming challenging.  Ive read that exercise helps but no energy means no movement, no movement means weight gain and it goes on.  I am considering discussing taking a break from anastrozole or an alternative.  Has anyone had this experience or similar?  

  • Hi Shy 1243 welcome to the forum though I am sorry to hear how much pain and discomfort you are in. Anastrozole and Letrozole, whilst slightly different are from.a group of drugs called Aromatase Inhibitors. They are designed to cut off our supply of Oestrogen as some breast cancers are Oestrogen receptors and that needs treated. Unfortunately with most of these drugs the side effects include boney pain and other side effects as you are experiencing.. is it worth asking for some time off the drug, as this is not unheard of as a short holiday from the drugs. It may be that the Oncologist could change you onto another drug from the same group..Always worth asking. Gail

  • thank you so much; hopefully I can discuss a solution with my oncologist

  • Hi - breast cancer now has a webinar coming up on this that you might find useful

    https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/online-workshop-navigating-tamoxifen-and-aromatase-inhibitors-tickets-1360482041409 

    a breast cancer oncologist is leading it and there is a q and a at the end x 

  • thank you, even better!  I have loads of questions, perhaps I might get some meaningful and useful info

  • There are quite a few threads on breast cancer now forum you might find helpful too. Hope you get some helpful info x 

  • Hi. I was on anastrozole for seven years and I noticed a huge difference in side effects depending on manufacturer. I had horrible side effects from most of the generics. But I was ok on the branded product… original manufacturer. When I eventually figured this out I talked to my Oncologist and she said that its quite common. I am not sure if this helps at all

  • Thank you.  I try to keep to the same manufacturers, Accord reccomend by my oncologist.  I have been given others by my pharmacy when this has not been available.  But I've insisted they find  me the brand I'm used to.  I know I've to take these, but I'd also like to have some quality of life and live it!  Just don't know what awaits