Hi Sandy

I started anastrozole at the beginning of  December following chemo/ lumpectomy/ lymph removal and radiotherapy - apart from hot sweats occasionaly (which I had started to get before all this started) it has so far been okay.  It's worth giving it a go, you could be one of the lucky ones and it may not effect you too much. Have you been told you will also need bisphonates?  I opted for the infusion once every 6 months as I didn't fancy worrying about my throat every time I took a tablet. I had a couple of days bone ache but  then it went and now I don't need to think about it until the next one.

Hope this helps a little

Hi Broomla. Thank you so much for replying to my post. It's just been really difficult to find anything positive about Anastrozole but I'm pleased that you are finding it ok so far. I haven't been told that I will need bisphonates but maybe that will depend on the health of the sentinel node that is being removed for diagnosis at the same time as the lumpectomy on March 1st. Currently there is no sign of anything in my nodes and I am blessed not to require any chemo and just 5x radiotherapy. Even reading the clinical info on anastrozole doesn't inspire me with confidence to take it. I'm knocking on now and went through an early menopause in my 40s. Hot flushes I can deal with but my old bones are creaky enough without any help from medication. I think it's all about quality of life for me rather than quantity. Everyone is different though and must do what is right for them. I wish you all the very best and again, thank you x

Hi Sandy,

I am just coming to the end of 5 years on Anastrazole.  I had the same treatment as you  followed by hormone therapy. I read all about the possible side effects and was terrified, but, although I had initial aches and pains, generally speaking I have been fine. I do have osteopenia and now need my final bone scan.

It is worth giving it a try. Different brands have different side effects, but I have got on well with TEVA and have stuck with it. I am also very active and I think this helps. I walk, do Pilates and garden. Actually, in the early days when I was quite stiff, it helped to keep moving. 

Hopefully, Anastrozole has improved my chances and I am quite worried about stopping taking it!  Give it a chance - the first few weeks may be tricky, but it does get better!  Sending you all good wishes for your treatment.

Sue