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Exemestane and extreme fatigue
Breast Cancer | Last Active: May 17 9:41am | Replies (22)Comment receiving replies
Going through some of the same. Lumpectomy June 2023 then chemo and radiation. On Anastrazole for 7 months but changed to exemestane in November 2024 due to side effects. Last visit (March 2025) he even noted I looked tired. So told him I am constantly tired, falling asleep in the middle of doing things, naps etc that I’ve never needed before. Also been gaining weight even though nothing else (diet and exercise) is unchanged and I’ve maintained static weight since the start of this until 8 weeks on exemestane. Thyroid was tested and normal several months ago, bloodwork otherwise looks ok, so the only answer I get is that I must be depressed because fatigue is a symptom of depression and I should seek therapy and try medications. I’ve reached the point where I’ll acknowledge something if specifically asked but don’t offer much anymore because it’s never a side effect of the medications so not something they need to treat. I think both problems relate to the exemestane because I was stable before it started but a, just told they’re not a side effect of the medications. So we just do the best we can with what we have. Don’t know that this helps but you’re not alone.
Replies to "Going through some of the same. Lumpectomy June 2023 then chemo and radiation. On Anastrazole for..."
I am on Anastrozole now for 6 years and they told me 5 years. Last year I asked to be taken off and she said it’s best u stay on but I can’t take all the side effects. Everything I say they just brush off. I hope you get some relief.
Hello, nice to meet you, you are so determined and courageous! Have you considered getting a second opinion? Your insurance may cover it, and even if it doesn’t, I suggest it would prove valuable. Especially if you can obtain one from a university cancer program.
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Thank you so much for your reply. I’m sorry for what you are experiencing. I believe fatigue is a side effect and, I, too, have been asked about my mood. I think the side effects most reported are released or noted. Like any other drug, there are always outliers. On top of Exemestane, I take prolia every 6 months and I also take Effexor every day. In fact, I’ve been treated for anxiety since 6 months after my oophorectomy because the anxiety never went away.
I’ve explained to my family doctor recently (on phone) how I am feeling. All of my bloods are good with exception of my triglycerides and sugar. I’ve never had a problem with these before. Admittedly, I’ve not been taking as good care of myself these last 6 months. I’m getting on top of things, though. I’m rambling now lol.