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Are my mood swings from Arimidex or because I stopped Lexapro?
Diagnosed with stage 1 DCIS left breast. Lumpectomy 4/17/26. 5 radiation treatments. Clear margins. .2 mm tumor size. Caught very early. 76 years old. Was told by medical oncologist that I must stop Lexapro (20 mg daily). I am a long term (20 years) user. I successfully weaned 2 months ago, but am really struggling. Do not know if my mood swings are from menopausal symptoms from Arimidex, or stopping Lexapro. Also having a lot of bone pain and joint pain. DEXA in February showed -.8 at hip, +1 at lumbar. Osteopenia. I am struggling. What do studies show about Lexapro affecting Arimidex effectiveness? Perhaps if I felt better mentally, I could better tolerate side effects. Ideas?
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@beverlycook1950, I'm sorry to hear that you are struggling. Congratulations on tapering off Lexapro. I know that that is not easy. Did your oncologist explain why you needed to come off Lexapro while taking an aromatase inhibitor?
It's my understanding that taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) while on an aromatase inhibitor (AI) is generally considered safe and is frequently done to manage depression, anxiety, or treatment side effects like hot flashes.
Members like @lcr2017 @semurrey @texasduchess who may have experiences to share.
Beverley, have you talked to your doctor about the best options for you to manage your mental health while in treatment for breast cancer? Your mental health is important too.
Yes I weaned from 20 mg Lexapro, and after suffering for 3 months with mood swings, razor edge temperament, anxiety, and tearfulness, I started back on Lexapro last week. I continue to take Arimidex, but my quality of life without Lexapro was not good. My primary care physician is aware. He could only find one small cohort study about Lexapro and Arimidex which affected obese women. I am not obese. I’m taking my chances. Feel much better after just a week on Lexapro. Curious if anyone else had this recommendation made to them by medical oncologist. Thank you for your response.