Anyone taken an aromatase inhibitor with GLP-1 weight loss medication?

Posted by claunch @claunch, Apr 11 10:25am

Weight loss, even 10 to 15 pounds, would help my blood pressure and my prediabetic condition. I have had early stage breast cancer and have been on Letrozole for 18 months. Minimum side effects from the Letrozole. Oncologist said the medications are not contraindicated. I still feel very hesitant. I do exercise and try to cut back on calories. Nothing seems to work. Anyone have experience with Letrozole and a weight loss med, and if so, which of the meds did they take? Thank you

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Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Apr 12 4:37pm

@claunch, I believe you are referring to GLP-1 medications.

"Medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are transforming the treatment of obesity, and the benefits go beyond weight loss. GLP-1 medications have also been approved to treat sleep apnea and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, a serious liver disease. They’re also being evaluated for many other conditions, including breast cancer."

You can read more in these articles:
- What You Need to Know About GLP-1s and Breast Cancer Care https://www.bcrf.org/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-glp-1s-and-breast-cancer-care/
- Cancer Benefits and Risks From Ozempic, Wegovy, and Other Weight Loss Drugs https://www.mskcc.org/news/cancer-benefits-and-risks-from-ozempic-wegovy-and-other-weight-loss-drugs

You might also discuss possible risks and benefits for you with your oncology pharmacist. They know so much about drug interactions.

muscolor | @muscolor | Apr 13 1:45pm

I have been on GLP-1 for about 3 years prior to cancer diagnosis (lost @ 37 lbs). Stopped with diagnosis in anticipation of surgery - put on 10 lbs in 2 months! I am a stress eater, so that didn't help! Doctors gave me the ok to get back on it, at the initial dose (well below what I had been on). I am in 4th week now, stemmed the upward trend and started to take off now. I know I will feel better at a lower weight when I undergo radiation, about to begin.

sharon35981 | @sharon35981 | Apr 14 1:48pm

I took GLP – 1 for two weeks. I became constipated and ended up in the hospital with sepsis. if I did this again, I would take MiraLAX every day.

carolinab | @carolinab | 1 day ago

I have been taking Anastrozole for 14 months and started taking Zepbound 6 months ago. My PCP prescribed the Zepbound with the blessing of my oncologist. I am still on the lowest dose and have lost 34 pounds. I have avoided constipation by eating an apple after dinner and taking 2 Colace pills before bedtime. That has worked for me, but everyone is different and has to find what works for them. I have dieted and been overweight most of my life. This medication has been life changing for me. In addition to losing weight, my labs have greatly improved.

vegada | @vegada | 21 hours ago

I've been on anastrozle for six years and Zepbound for three years. If you are worried by side effects of Zepbound, they can be managed and there is a large online GLP1 community who share all their tips for side effect management. I have had no problem taking Zepbound while on Anastrozole and have lost over 175 lbs. Zepbound has been life-changing for me. I have other medical issues that Zepbound has improved or eliminated.

claunch | @claunch | 17 hours ago

Thank you for sharing the very interesting, and inspiring, story of your experience with a GLP1. And congratulations for your determination and ability to “stick with it.” Your example gives me additional information for consideration of trying one of the meds. Thanks again!