Anastrazole

Hi there. Found out yesterday I have to start Anastrazole for 5 years and also have 15 sessions of radiotherapy. Looking at the side effects of this medication it’s a never ending list!

Can anyone advise me how they find taking Anastrazole and if any side effects. I realise everyone is different but would be good to hear from others about how they are getting on with it.

Thanks in advance.

Mary xx

  • From what I've read everyone get a bone scan as anastrozole can impact bones, just think its really odd that Ive not been given one nor has anyone mentioned calcium suppliment x

  • Yes, I thought everyone had a bone scan prior to hormone inhibitors...thought it was all part of the process....xx

  • Hi Marlyn - long time no see :)   how are you getting on? NICE guidelines state that bone scan must be performed prior to starting so not a happy bunny that I'm not getting one - didnt even get my hormones checked. I'm starting to think I may have to go to the private sector to get the scan(s) I need. x

  • Hi Mary,

    Hope things are going well for you. I started taking Anastrazole nearly four years ago and was terrified by all the possible side effects.

    Four years in I am fine.  I think, now, I will be worried when I stop taking it!  For the first 18 months, I did have some lower back pain, painful fingers and stiffness. I found that exercise helped and kept up with walking, which I have always done.  These symptoms have mainly disappeared.

    My base line DEXA scan showed marginal osteopenia in one hip. The second scan showed mild osteopenia in both hips and I now take AdCalD3 for my bones. Hopefully this has stopped any further deterioration. I now do Pilates as well as walking regularly and I love gardening.

    I think I have been very fortunate and can only offer encouragement.  I know that others have a very different experience.

    With very best wishes to you,

    SusieEm

  • Hi there Susie thank you for your lovely message. Good to hear you are doing well on the Anastrazole. I will have been on it 6 months soon. No real problems apart from some aching joints occasionally but nothing major. Like you I am active. Living by the sea I am out most days walking and taking photographs. I like to keep active. The radiotherapy slowed me down a bit but I think I have recovered from that now.

    Unfortunately my DEXA scan showed osteoporosis and a blood test showed very low Vitamin D so am on high dose Vitamin D for 10 weeks then probably have to take Alendronic Acid which I'm not keen on.

    Great to hear you are doing Pilates and keeping so well. I too feel very fortunate as my breast cancer was found after a routine mammogram.

    Look after yourself and nice to chat

    Love Mary x