Connect
Anastrozole Brain Fog
I started taking Anastrozole in October 2018 after radiation for stage 2 breast cancer. Has anyone had ‘brain fog’ or memory loss with this medication? If so, what have you done to relieve this annoying side effect?
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.
Connect
A question I have is, I personally know many women in academia, research, teaching, management positions who are well beyond their menopausal age and doing a wonderful job. So, if cognitive decline is due to the lack of estrogen, how are we going to explain these brilliant women? If it is due to the estrogen blocking medication, then can we say that there's a difference between the cognitive decline due to menopause vs cognitive decline due to the estrogen blockers?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
7 ReactionsFor me, and I believe for many women, there were many changes in my body during my menopause years. When breast cancer reared its ugly head in my mid 60’s and I was treated with surgery followed with estrogen blockers, it was like going through menopause all over again. My worst symptom is my cognitive function and loss of memory. My husband and son made fun of me to the point that I just kept my mouth shut and didn’t say anything. I have retired from work, and recently finished taking hormone blockers; however, I continue to stay by myself as much as possible. I’ve learned through this experience to enjoy my own company and the peacefulness of my alone time.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
7 ReactionsI was on Anastrozole for 6 yrs and off it for 1 year My dr suggested to get off of it because of my memory problems . I’m 68 and finding it hard remembering names and following directions when driving. It’s like more I try to remember my mind goes blank😵💫 I’ve been to a neurologist and oncologist about it. I chalked it up to chemo brain but was told this usually happens within 1st yr and gradually eases up I now feel I’m getting dementia from it my family sometimes upset me when they say “ we just told you that” or “don’t you remember you just asked me that” It scares me more when I try to remember something I know it’s common knowledge for me and I can’t remember at all😟 I retired year ago because of memory problems so I find myself depressed and anxiety. This Mayo connect site has brought me some relief knowing I’m not alone and not going crazy !
Excellent therapy just knowing others feel same as me and it’s not “ all in our head”. ❤️
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
18 ReactionsHang in there! Estrogen blockers are just about as bad as cancer itself! Except they don’t kill you…
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI would give this comment 10 "likes" if I could.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
5 ReactionsI am curious if weight influences Anastrozole side effects. The standard dose of 1 mg might work differently for a 150 lb woman vs a 200 lb women. One of the studies I read seemed to suggest weight as a factor in Anastrozole side affects.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionSo sorry you are experiencing the memory issue. Age itself is a challenge with this but I think Anastrozole is also a factor. I am 79 and in my second year with taking it.
In respect to people reminding you that they already told you something. What the heck!!! I decided i had enough on my plate without that kind of crap. I saw a friend endure this kind of thoughtlessness when another friend tried to respond. I wanted to scream at them. I told her to ask whoever challenges her to just say - I wanted to make sure you remember what you said. People who do this are usually friends or family. You deal with these occurrences as best you can but there is no reason for a person to wear a ‘scarlet letter’! Don’t be a victim. You have obviously noticed this setback which is a very important consciousness. You can challenge yourself and stimulate you brain in many ways.
I would say you are a very savvy person. Don’t fall into the trap of doubting yourself. Don’t be a victim. There is so much about you that deserves recognition. Start giving a greater value to that rather those in your life who have a problem repeating
themselves. 😂
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
9 ReactionsThis is my second go round with breast cancer. I took exemestaine the first time now I’m on Anastrozole and I’m losing my words again. Soo I told my family snd friends if I can’t remember a word I will say bucket instead and that way I don’t have to struggle trying to find the right word and they understand I can’t remember. It’s easier on all of us and I don’t get my feeling hurt.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
4 ReactionsI’m also the same way. I didn’t know it could be because of Asnastrotole. I see my Oncologist next month and talk to her about it. I thought chemo caused it.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsThis is such a great point! There seems to be only one dose regardless of size or any other factors.
I believe this is on the drug companies and there isn’t a financial incentive to adjust dosing.
Though my oncologist suggested who would want to be the group with a lower dose?
Can you share more info about the study?
Thank you!