What happens when you stop taking anastrozole?

I have been taking Anastrozole for 4.5 years. I am due to stop in January 31, 2023. I can hardly wait. Because of all the side effects I am experiencing; muscle aches and pain, hair loss, constipation, bone loss; I would like to begin to taper off in order to find out if it is the true cause of my bone density issues and all the rest. I have been told by docs to take Reclast to help with my bone loss. But it is a drug with side effects and that worries me. I do not want to compound the problems I am already experiencing. I would personally like to get off of it and then see if my condition improves. But am I playing Russian roulette with my bones? I am just scared of taking the Reclast. I was also informed not to stop taking Anastrozele early. And I so want to be done with it, too!
I am in the same boat as you. I wish I had advice but I am doing what you are. I can't wait to be done!

Hi there..ive recently stopped the Anastrozole after 15 mos due to elevated labs. Im feeling off...lightheaded, tired , and and just down. Repeating labs 8n 30 days to see if its the culprit. Ive never had elevated labs. So frustrated.

I have been taking Anastrozole for 4.5 years. I am due to stop in January 31, 2023. I can hardly wait. Because of all the side effects I am experiencing; muscle aches and pain, hair loss, constipation, bone loss; I would like to begin to taper off in order to find out if it is the true cause of my bone density issues and all the rest. I have been told by docs to take Reclast to help with my bone loss. But it is a drug with side effects and that worries me. I do not want to compound the problems I am already experiencing. I would personally like to get off of it and then see if my condition improves. But am I playing Russian roulette with my bones? I am just scared of taking the Reclast. I was also informed not to stop taking Anastrozele early. And I so want to be done with it, too!
I am in the same boat as you. I wish I had advice but I am doing what you are. I can't wait to be done!

@omer

I have osteoporosis and am on Leterzole.

I have refused to take reclast or Prolia.

I am planning on starting osteoporosis PT and weight bearing exercises and evaluating at my next DEXA.

I too am horrified with all the side effects of these drugs for osteoporosis.

What side effects?

Letrozole causes osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Please give me any facts related to Letrozole and Fosomax and having osteoporosis. I am so concerned.

Try to not worry too much about side effects--they are just possibilities. I've tolerated letrozole without any side effects for a year, but I simply told myself that if I couldn't handle it I'd look for other options. I haven't experienced Fosomax, but if you are on letrozole or even of a certain age you should be monitored for osteopenia and osteoporosis. There should hopefully be warning time with this, and different ways to treat. And there is plenty of osteoporosis without AI. Basically taking any drug does not doom you to nasty side effects--just allow yourself to re-evaluate as you go and not be pressured. Pharmacology, medical science, and all of us as people are in constant flow of change. Try making the best (not perfect) decision for the time, and take good care of yourself!