Tamoxifen v Anastrolze

Hi ArtyAnne , it’s hard that you’ve been given a choice! I don’t know what I’d have done in your situation…. I was 59 when given Anastrozole at my first oncology appointment. You can read my profile if you want details (click on someone’s username. It can be useful to know info though I’ve probably put far too much!). In short I had a smallish (13mm), oestrogen positive cancer, no evidence of spread so wide local excision, sentinel node sampling, 3 weeks of radiotherapy and hormone therapy. I didn’t question which drug just popped the pills (and still do). From reading about them and also from this site, it seems that Anastrozole and Letrozole are the first go to’s for post menopausal folk. My friend though, with an almost identical case, is on tamoxifen as she has osteoporosis. Anastrozole can cause bone thinning as you probably know. I have osteopenia so have dexa scans every 2 years while I’m on the drug. So far so good on that front. I do have a selection of the side effects but there are plenty of people who don’t. I’m sure it’s mostly folk who have side effects who post here about the drugs as those who don’t aren’t so likely to! And they may well be the majority. I’m still taking them despite the side effects as I’m keen to keep the beast at bay. 
Sorry I think I’ve been zero help! I think you just have to look at both and decide which to try, with the option I’m sure to switch if you want to. There are people here who have done that and it seems like they come off one for a few weeks to get it out of their system, then start on the other. But of course with guidance from the medics. 
Good luck with your decision! Love and hugs, HFxx

Hi ArtyAnne

I just think I would give you my experience.

I was diagnosed with BC in December 2013. It was a grade 3. I had a lumpectomy & radiotherapy. I was put on to Anastrozole originally for 5 years, which extended to 10 years. I was one of the lucky ones and I had no side effects like some ladies. I have had two dexa scans which have showed no change. I stopped taking Anastrozole in March this year after 9 and a bit years this was due to not be able to get the Teva brand. 

I have just had my mammogram just short of 10 years and it was clear for cancer.

I now have had kidney cancer but doing well as far as I know.

Hope this helps and if I can answer any of you questions please ask.

Stay positive I know it is not easy.

Wishing you well.