Welcome to Connect, @marybe. This specific discussion thread is a good find - so much information and multiple experiences to read through. We also look forward to learning more about you, Mary. What type of cancer did you have? What other treatments did you have before anastrozole? I would be particularly interested in hearing more about the clinical trial you're participating in.

Next month I will have been on anastrozole for two years. Side effects have been minimal... I’ve not experienced pain or joint pain like many women report. The first few months however I had very frequent hot flashes (much more intense than those I’d had through my natural menopause) which were often preceded by a sensation of “prickles” over my entire body. The prickly feeling is very rare now. I do still have hot flashes but they are not as frequent nor as intense— I guess my body’s adjusting. I take them as a sign that the anastrozole is still working! I also play havoc with our thermostat as I change the settings for my comfort, although I try to be somewhat thoughtful about the others who live in this house, too, LOL!

I am also on Anastrozole as part of a study. I started in April and took for 5 months prior to lumpectomy last week. The anastrozole did what it was supposed to do. After 1st month the Ki 67 was rechecked via biopsy and it had declined, which is what doctor was hoping for. The result of surgery showed tumor was smaller than when first diagnosed.

I meet with doctors next Thursday to find out about radiation and future treatment.

My side effects were minimum. I was already being treated for depression / anxiety, and my anxiety increased after starting medications. But seeing I was dealing with breast cancer and all that it involves, it was hard to know if Anastrozole was the causes of increased in anxiety.

My advice is if you do notice side effects physical or psychosocial, make sure your doctors are aware of them.

Good luck
Laurie