Connect
← Return to Concerned about the side effects of anastrozole
Discussion
Concerned about the side effects of anastrozole
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Nov 21 7:48am | Replies (1935)Comment receiving replies
I'm curious how oncologists come up with their drug combinations, i.e., I was on Ibrance/Letrozole and when it stopped working was put on Faslodex (injected)/Afinitor. But I've seen Faslodex/Ibrance combos and many others. I wonder if it depends on the particular cancer (I'm mets BC) or is an institution or onco protocol, or? Can you shed any light on this? Thanks.
Replies to "I'm curious how oncologists come up with their drug combinations, i.e., I was on Ibrance/Letrozole and..."
There are many factors that contribute to the treatment protocol that is selected for YOU.
- Research and the latest evidence-based information available
- Your specific tumor type
- Your current medical status and ability to manage the side effects of some treatments
- Your medicial history and co-conditions, i.e., diabetes, autoimmune disease, bone health, etc.
- Your medication allergies
- Your previous cancer history
- Your family history and genetic history
- Your preferences, i.e., which side effects impact your quality of life negatively and which ones you may be able to tolerate.
- The goal of treatment: cure, control, comfort
- Insurance coverage and financial considerations
- etc.
This is why treatment may not be the same as another woman with the same cancer type. It depends.
You may also find this article from Mayo Clinic helpful in understanding the valuable contributions patients make in their treatment decisions:
- Cancer treatment decisions: 5 steps to help you decide https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cancer/in-depth/cancer-treatment/art-20047350
Connect
I watched a great presentation on meds for MBC on EMBRACE. It is on YouTube. In the meantime we can look forward to Colleen's answer 🙂