Anastrozole - help

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Hi. 

I'm new to the forum. I was told I had breast cancer tubular early stage in late January, and I had a lumpectomy on 21st Feb.  All went well and I'm now waiting for radiotherapy. The consultant has put me on Anastrozole as the cancer was ER+.    I'm three weeks into the tablets and now have up set tummy about every three days. is this normal or will it hopefully settle down?  

thank you 

  • Hi  , sorry you’re having this issue, it’s not one I’ve had with Anastrozole but it does say on the info sheet that it can cause digestive issues. I was worried about nausea so when I first started taking it, I had it with food. I’ve always taken it in the morning to make sure I remember so I’d have it with my breakfast. I thought it would be better not to take it on an empty stomach, although the instructions say it doesn’t matter. But as I didn’t get nauseous or other digestive problems, I now just have it as soon as I wake up, with a mug of water. 
    Have you tried taking it at a different time to see if that makes a difference? Or after food? If it persists, I’d let your team know as they might have some suggestions, or even consider swapping to a different hormone treatment? Hope it settles, love and hugs, HFxx

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • HappyFeet1.  Thanks for the response.  I have taken it at night as I didn't want hot flashes during the day.  This seems to have worked, but the tummy problems are a bit of an issue.  I will start to take it at a different time with food and see if that's better.  Thanks. 

  • I’ve found that most side effects settle with time. I hope your tummy settles too.