Aromatase Inhibitors: How to choose and manage side effects?

I am on Exemestane right now. I was on Anastrozole and it really made me VERY moody. I am still on the fence as I think they ALL affect your hormones and that makes everything go wonky. I just don't think there's a way to get around the side affects.

I believe there is a lot to be said about trying different types of AI's including different manufacturers who may also use different fillers.
But something to keep in mind is the drug is meant to suppress estrogen production. If you research how estrogen works in your body, you'll get a better idea of what to expect simply because the drug is working. Weight gain, for one, is possible because of the lowered estrogen level, not the drug per say. There's also elevated lipid levels, moodiness, insomnia, and more. It's the loss of the estrogen that may be to blame. As to joint pain, I was almost literally crippled by knee pain, but adding collagen supplements had huge results. I also found that when I tried a lower dosage that I had serious jaw pain (from Prolia?) that improved with a higher dosage. Everyone is different and will react differently so you just keep experimenting. This forum is such a great place to get those ideas.

I've been on Xeloda, Anastrozole and am now taking Exemestane I find they are pretty much all the same. I do not get alot of the aches and pains that women have problems with, but it definitely affects your moods. ALL of them. And they make you very tired. I am also having some weight gain issues with the Exemestane. Best of luck to you.

I started exemestane again today after taking a two week break. I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
Congrats to you friend!
Thank you for the feedback! 🤗

Sorry to hear about your challenges. So many different experiences! I’ve gone from a Anastrozole to Letrozole, which works well for me. A girlfriend was in your situation, and her oncologist switched her to Tamoxifen. Not the ideal, but she could tolerate it. In October she’ll hit her 5 years and will go off it.

My oncology nurse (after much cajoling on her part) got me to try osteo bi flex for the horrible joint pain I was experiencing. Much to my surprise, after about two months, the pain was so much better. You may want to give it a try 🌹

@cherziggy I finished my letrozole. I took it in the morning...

I tried anastrozole- did not work. I am on exestamine- joint aches and sleep issue, went off for a bit but back on with less side effects… I also added seeing an acupuncturist ( she’s also a oncologist) which has helped the side effects - she also recommended some supplements. I also walk, healthy yoga and a breathing yoga which has really work! I am not joint ache free, but everything has helped. I’m 61 . I’m okay with my “new” normal.

I’m glad the letrozole is working for you! I am able to walk and do so every morning at twilight. I look forward to it even though it’s difficult sometimes.
Can I ask if you take the meds at night or in the morning? I heard someone else say that when she changed to taking it before bed was a game changer for her.
Have a good day!

Brand name letrozole worked for me. Certainly not without side effects. I found that walking more than 20 minutes helped. Up to 20 minutes I had a lot of pain but if I got up to or past 45 minutes I felt good. My onco said she had heard that from others. Not to minimize your pain which may make walking impossible.