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Why are dosages for estrogen suppression drugs one-size-fits-all?
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Apr 19 1:45pm | Replies (103)Comment receiving replies
I had to “fight” with my oncologist to test me - refusing to start anastrozole until tested. His response is it’s not clinically indicated. Sadly there isn’t enough research. I’m 77 yo, early stage 1 BC, lumpectomy, 5 day radiation, normal weight for height, already have high BP, osteoporosis and heart disease. I feel better knowing my estrogen is below 15 (in case I decide to stop taking due to bad side effects).
I wish they did a more sensitive estrogen level test so I’d know how much under 15 my level is. There are a few studies about what % drop one can expect when on AI. If my estrogen level is actually 5 then an 80% drop might bring it lower than research says needed. That is, if there were research. One size fits all standard of care seems wrong.
Replies to "@sue417 I had to “fight” with my oncologist to test me - refusing to start anastrozole..."
@kherman8434 my situation is similar, diagnosed in August with early stage 1 ILC, lumpectomy & 5-day radiation. I'm 72. I take a half-dose (10 mg) of Tamoxifen which will hopefully help my bones & I'm doing ok. In case that might be an option for you.
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@kherman8434
I don't know what has to happen so that they will start to listen to patients because I think it's better to know what your numbers are for sure before starting that med.
I did not take an AI my breast cancer was dcis her2 negative stage 0. I had 20 rounds of radiation. 1 lymph node removed which was clear.
They immediately took me off my hormone therapy the day my GP told me I had breast cancer which put me into one horrid year of menopause. I had been on it for 13 years and I felt great. Now I feel like crap and I'm exhausted all the time and have brutal hot flashes still it's so frustrating.