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Breast cancer - due to start radiotherapy and have to take anastrozole

Moore63
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Recently gone through surgery. Due to breast cancer had a masectomy.now due to have a course of radio therapy. Also have to take anastrozole. Which reading side effects not looking forward to taking. Been through the menapause once is bad enough. Sounds like this medication. Will maybe cause all those awful symptoms again. Anyone advise please

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    Hello Moore63

    I am on femara and had nasty joint aches. My breast nurse told me about a small study from Tokyo in which women took pomi-t - a supplement tested for men originally. It certainly helped me, I walk more comfortably my hands are better. I checked with my oncologist, she said because it was tested in a large study it is safe. She can't prescribe it though because its classed as a food. Apparently it's quite well known - does anyone else have any experience with it - or any other tips (most welcome)

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    I started anastrozole after my chemo and unfortunately started getting pains and stiffness in my hands - the oncologist advised regular stretching and exercise and healthy foods. She also pointed out a study from Tokyo where women took a food supplement called Pomi-t. I now take it and my hands are much better but not sure about my hot flushes. The oncologist said it's safe because it does not affect oestrogen levels in my body

  • Offline in reply to Lady-on-chemo

    Lady 

    ask your gP for something for flushes mine gave me chlonodine they stopped the flushes instantly x  good luck 

  • Offline in reply to LCR

    Hi LCR,

    Can I ask about the ‘extra tablets’ that you take on top of the hormone inhibitors? Are they all prescribed for you, or do you buy some of them (eg Pilfood) yourself? I’m going to be taking hormone inhibitors (I don’t know which yet) and am thinking ahead as to what I might need. I’m dreading the side effects, so would like to be prepared. 

    Many thanks. 

  • Offline in reply to GoonerGirl68

    Hi , I’m on Letrozole and had most of the side effects. For bone pain I take Lamberts Magnesium 150mg Morning and nighttime , Lamberts Calcium and vit D at lunchtime ( it can’t be taken at the same time as the Magesium ) I take Vit B12 spray for hair shedding and the Pilfood . Letrozole leeches the Calcium from your bones which is why I take that as it can cause osteoporosis . Also do  weight bearing exercise to prevent this. Please check with your doctor before you take any extra supplements . I buy all of the above as they are not prescribed. I wish you all the best and hope these work for you . Some people manage with very few side effects btw , my old boss has been taking it for 10 years with no problems! A good diet is important and I have Citalopram prescribed for hot flushes!  

    Ha ! I got to 60 on no medication , now at 63 I’m on everything!!! Cancer , the gift that keeps giving x

  • Offline in reply to LCR

    Thank you- that’s really helpful. I’d love to be one of the lucky ones that gets few side effects, but I’d like to be prepared rather than them take me by surprise x

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