Cancer Research UK main site

Arimidex side effects

Susiebradders
Offline

I had surgery to remove breast cancer in 2018. That was followed by 6 months of chemotherapy, 23 sessions  of radiotherapy, 7 zometa infusions and various aromatase inhibitors. I have changed type of AI numerous times over the last 6 years due to side effects. 

I have been on Arimidex for about 2 years and still suffer from bad muscle and joint pain.  My GP prescribed doloxetine starting on a low dose, this being doubled after about 8 months. However, I'm still struggling with bad pains. I've been back to my GP several times, only to be told that I'll feel much better when I stop taking the Arimidex (in 3 years time).

I'm only 57, but feel like 87. I walk daily, but I'm starting to struggle with my weight and have gained a stone in the last 12 months. 

I was wondering if you have come across this type of prolonged pain before and could suggest a course of action/ remedy please.

In hopeful anticipation  

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about your situation. This must be a very difficult time for you and I appreciate you wanting to explore your options.

    As nurses we don't recommend treatment as this needs to come from your healthcare team who are familiar with all your medical details.

    We would usually suggest talking to your doctor about changing to a different type of hormone therapy to see if that might help with the side effects. But I see that you've already done this.

    Duloxetine can help with joint pain, but it doesn't work for everyone, so do speak to your doctor about trying something else to see if it works.

    Some women may decide if the joint and muscle pain is too difficult to cope with that they stop taking their hormone treatment. We always advise people who are thinking of doing this to talk it over with their breast care team who know all about you and can help you to reach an informed decision about what would be best for you. Your GP can refer you back to the breast team if you are not currently seeing them.

    I hope this reply helps a little. Give us a ring if you would like to talk things over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Celene

    Many thanks Celene. I'll do as you advise

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.