1. < Breast Cancer

Concerned about the side effects of anastrozole

Posted by tinalove @tinalove, Jan 31, 2016

I completed all treatments for breast cancer but now I am supposed to take hormone blocker, named anastrozole. im concerned about the side effects. Has anyone here taken it and did anyone have hair loss?

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Molly MIller | @mollymiller | Jan 31, 2019
In reply to @baker1 "I have been on Anastrozol since November 2018. So far my side effects have been mild...." + (show)
@baker1

I have been on Anastrozol since November 2018. So far my side effects have been mild. Some back soreness, some fatigue. A few times I had tingling of my fingers and a brief dizzy spell( on the very first day of taking the Anastrozol). Staying active helps a lot.

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I tell myself, each time I take my Arimidex, "OK, I know you're going to beat up on me some way today, but you're beating up on my cancer too. That makes it worth it!" Symptoms, after nearly 2 years of Arimidex ~ Body aches and pains; Hot flashes: Fatigue, mild; MIld confusion and/or depression ( I AM going to be 70 this year!) But the reward? CLEAR BILATERAL Mammogram 2 years post surgery!

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oilermama | @oilermama | Jan 31, 2019

I have had a series of issues with the anastrazole: hip (joint) pain, hand tingling and numbness, and some energy issues. Fortunately a combination of physical medicine and rehab doctor, a good nurse navigator, a friend who is a pharmacist, yoga and exercise have helped. My best advice is to keep track of symptoms and then question, advocate and persist until you find some answers and/or relief.

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jeannie53 | @jeannie53 | Jan 31, 2019
In reply to @lisman1408 "Did you have side effects from the Anastrozole? If so, what were they?" + (show)
@lisman1408

Did you have side effects from the Anastrozole? If so, what were they?

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@lisman1408 Started October 1, 1028. Felt fine for the first couple of months and then was hit with severe body aches. It passed after a couple of weeks and now I've been fine. I do think that sometimes the bottom of my feet hurt. If I continue to feel like I am now all will be good. Doctors have told me I must exercise and I need to get going on that. Also to take supplements because it can effect your bones. I do notice if I keep moving I feel better.

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1 reply
Molly MIller | @mollymiller | Feb 1, 2019

And exercise? I can't force myself. I have gained a LOT of weight, it's cold, my whole body aches, et. etc! All bad excuses. On the occasions that I am Forced to walk a distance or climb a lot of stairs I get short of breath. I AM LAZY!!! I have been trying to force myself to do at least 15 minutes walking the dog...That's it! And "Exercise is Medicine"! I know it! Woe is me ~ One day at a time, i suppose. THanks for the input.:)

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2 replies
kathyomaha55 | @kathyomaha55 | Feb 1, 2019
In reply to @jeannie53 "@lisman1408 Started October 1, 1028. Felt fine for the first couple of months and then was..." + (show)
@jeannie53

@lisman1408 Started October 1, 1028. Felt fine for the first couple of months and then was hit with severe body aches. It passed after a couple of weeks and now I've been fine. I do think that sometimes the bottom of my feet hurt. If I continue to feel like I am now all will be good. Doctors have told me I must exercise and I need to get going on that. Also to take supplements because it can effect your bones. I do notice if I keep moving I feel better.

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My Doctor told me to take 1000 units of calcium a day and 2,000 units of D3 Oil (small capsules) a day for my bones. Hang in there & Good Luck!

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lisman1408 | @lisman1408 | Feb 1, 2019
In reply to @mollymiller "And exercise? I can't force myself. I have gained a LOT of weight, it's cold, my..." + (show)
@mollymiller

And exercise? I can't force myself. I have gained a LOT of weight, it's cold, my whole body aches, et. etc! All bad excuses. On the occasions that I am Forced to walk a distance or climb a lot of stairs I get short of breath. I AM LAZY!!! I have been trying to force myself to do at least 15 minutes walking the dog...That's it! And "Exercise is Medicine"! I know it! Woe is me ~ One day at a time, i suppose. THanks for the input.:)

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Don’t beat yourself up so! You are likely not lazy-another side effect of Anastrozole is depression and anxiety. Add that to the mental effects of having cancer, and depression pretty easily sets in.

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Mentor
Rosemary, Volunteer Mentor | @rosemarya | Feb 1, 2019
In reply to @mollymiller "And exercise? I can't force myself. I have gained a LOT of weight, it's cold, my..." + (show)
@mollymiller

And exercise? I can't force myself. I have gained a LOT of weight, it's cold, my whole body aches, et. etc! All bad excuses. On the occasions that I am Forced to walk a distance or climb a lot of stairs I get short of breath. I AM LAZY!!! I have been trying to force myself to do at least 15 minutes walking the dog...That's it! And "Exercise is Medicine"! I know it! Woe is me ~ One day at a time, i suppose. THanks for the input.:)

Jump to this post

Hi, Mollie. I'm browsing conversations while waiting for dinner to cook. I am not part of this particular conversation, but when I read your words about exercise, I know of 2 discussions that I want to share with you. I invite you to take a look. You might find some encouragement or inspiration to get started. I know that your participation will be welcomed, because in spite of our medical differences, we have an equal interest in taking care of our selves and supporting each other.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/lighten-your-limbs-with-friends/
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/staying-motivated-for-the-long-haul/
Sending good thoughts for success.

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