Aromatase inhibitors have been around for 25 years with all their debilitating side effects. I find it infuriating that so many people write in to this forum and report that their oncologists refuse to acknowledge the pain and suffering they are experiencing are caused by these drugs. The side effects are well documented!
In December 2020 at the age of 70, I was prescribed 1 mg anastrozole every other day for 1 month. In January 2021, I began to take 1 mg every day. This dose of 1 mg is protocol. Drug companies determine the MTD - maximum tolerated dose. This dose is the same regardless of a patient's stage of cancer, age, weight, or preexisting conditions. Some studies have found that 1 size fits all when it comes to dosage is not appropriate. Older women metabolize drugs more slowly and often have more preexisting conditions. Why does a woman who weighs 120 need the same dose as someone who weighs much more, if estrogen is produced in our fat cells? Oncologists seldom discuss with their patients whether or not these drugs will improve their overall longevity. I was told that my breast cancer was stage 1 and my chance of recurrence would be 6%, if I took anastrozole and a 12% chance, if I didn't.
On February 11, 2021, I called my oncologist to report my MANY side effects. I was advised to stop taking the pills. At the next appointment, she dismissed all my side effects, except for my severe depression which she attributed to my concern over having breast cancer. She sent me to other doctors to determine the cause of my complaints. No other causes were found and the side effects all subsided in a rather short time after stopping anastrozole. The severe depression went away, in spite of the fact that the chance of recurrence is never 0%. I was strongly encouraged to take exemestane by another oncologist. He said that he could help me with the side effects, if I had any. I asked him what that meant. He said he could prescribe an anti-depressant, infusions for bone health if my osteopenia progressed to osteoporosis and medication for my daily headaches. When I asked about the potential side effects of the drugs to "treat" the potential side effects of exemestane, his response was, "Well, there's that." I opted not to take another AI. At age 71, I decided that quality of life was a priority. It will soon be 5 years, since I stopped taking anastrozole. I walk every day and fell well.
I realize that I am fortunate that my breast cancer was stage one and my chance of recurrence is relatively low. Each one of us has the right to make whatever decision is right for us. Try not to look back. I wish you all the best for the New Year.