Concerned about the side effects of anastrozole

It is 6 months now that I’m on anastrozole(Armidex). I take it around 8am, and by 3-4pm I feel so sleepy and fatigued. It seems this side effect seems to kick in with 7to 8 hours after I take the tablet. My hair has started to also thin quite rapidly. I have started having acupuncture treatment which hopefully will improve my energy level.

I hit my 5 year & my doctor refused me the BCI test - which I thought was really unfair. She wanted me to commit to another 5 years - which I refused, so she said the BCI test was not needed. Made me angry - why do doctors do that? She also said another 5 years would only reduce the risk of reoccurrence by less than 3%.

I hit my 5 year & my doctor refused me the BCI test - which I thought was really unfair. She wanted me to commit to another 5 years - which I refused, so she said the BCI test was not needed. Made me angry - why do doctors do that? She also said another 5 years would only reduce the risk of reoccurrence by less than 3%.

Take the anastrozole at night to avoid sleepiness. I too felt very tired about 6-7 hours after taking it in the morning. I now take the medication around 7 each evening. Feeling much more awake during the day.

I hit my 5 year & my doctor refused me the BCI test - which I thought was really unfair. She wanted me to commit to another 5 years - which I refused, so she said the BCI test was not needed. Made me angry - why do doctors do that? She also said another 5 years would only reduce the risk of reoccurrence by less than 3%.

From what I understand, BC I test is given to patients with initial stage 1 to 3 cancer, and you have to fill a requirements form. I am in the same situation. After talking to my oncologist, I am stopping anastrozole now and switching to EXEMESTANE, which apparently is better tolerated. Why not prescribe EXEMESTANE to begin with then? Because of insurance.... They won't cover it unless Dr. says you can't tolerate anastrozole any longer... Unbelievable. Good luck to you. Stay positive. I really believe in the power of a strong and positive attitude.

@kathyomaha55 after 5 years , I’m assuming with this dr. I would think they’d be more compassion. What was the reasoning for her to recommend another 5 yrs? I find it interesting that a Dr recommends a continuous of medication for 5 yrs But refuses a test that would give information If continuing would be of benefit. That does not make any sense to me. Well if this BCI testing is important to you, as it will give you more information, you should follow up with the facilities management or if she is private practice have you primary care order it. Be proactive for your Health and well being. Good luck & Blessings.

The BCI test did not apply to my case as I had 7 positive lymph nodes with extra nodal extension of nodes. That is the reasoning for AI 10 years. Anastrozole does cause some insomnia and joint aches but I am managing them most of the time. What I think is most important for all of us is that we find a physician we feel is a good fit and can communicate and educate .what we need personally. I’m also taking verzenio-that’s another story-so difficult to tell which med causes which side effects. I admire every breast cancer warrior, while we all have/had this unwanted change in our lives we are so open to help our new sisters and their families.

I agree it was really frustrating to not be allowed to get this test. It did not make any sense to me either. My original Oncologist had retired - so I filtered thru several replacements this last year. I wonder if I had the first one - who I really liked - if she would have explained more to me. I had Stage 1 IDC with no lymph node involvement. I got the Oncodx Type test & was a 22. So I could skip chemo but had lumpectomy & radiation. When the final doctor I saw told me that another 5 yrs would only reduce my reoccurrence by < 3% - it only confirmed my resolve to stop at 5 years. ONE other thing: Apparently all AI drugs (not sure if this includes Tamfoxin) - causes CATARACTS - makes the grow faster. After 5 years I now need cataract surgery as well. I'm 68.