Concerned about the side effects of anastrozole

So glad you made that point - definitely ‘ not imaginary’!!

It’s 2 years now that I’ve been taking Anastrozole, and yes I’m still having problems with hair loss plus other side effects

Hello srkellen,
I can totally understand the side effects you’re going through. I have been on Anastrozole for the past 2 years. I definitely have developed some mood issues, depression and anxiety.
I have also been diagnosed with osteopenia, high blood glucose & cholesterol which I never had before taking Anastrozole. I’m also experiencing extreme hair loss. And it seems nothing can be done for any of these side effects.

On Anastrozole now for 1 year 2 months. The drug definitely worked - reduced the size of my cancer and in some areas eliminated activity on the MRI. A blood test showed the estrogen feeding my cancer in my body has been lowered significantly. Some side effects initially - mood, hair loss, stiffness, hot flashes, fatigue, tummy upset most of the symptoms have seemed to dissipate over time - even my hair has mostly recovered. Still have the stiffness but find exercise/walking so beneficial also a good night's sleep is restorative. Would add definitely had some relief from acupuncture for the stiffness in the early days. As a side bar, have a friend who has been on Anastrozole now for 7 years - no side effects/feeling fine and NO RETURN OF THE CANCER.

I’m so sorry I had triple negative breast cancer 8 years ago. You must have been given a new drug. I hope they find some other drug you can use.

I had triple negative breast cancer and was prescribed this drug. It caused pain in every join escalating to the point of causing me to not function and ended up in ER. I was told taking it would be 50% successful. Not worth the effects. Not using

I have been on anastrozole for 20 months and I have the same similar experience! My hot flashes are still going on but coping! I am 76 and hoping it is only recommended for 5 years.
It is not our imagination!

I can identify with what you write and at present am in a similar position. I too am trying to be positive and forge ahead, I too feel ‘ changed’ but am hopeful things will level out in time. Best wishes.

I have been on a Anastrozole for 6 months. Very tired the first couple months and a few hot flashes. Now I am less tired but have some mild joint pain. I have experienced low mood and anxiety and started taking Buspirone which has helped. I have always been upbeat and positive and the low mood has been challenging….I don’t feel like I am the same person. I’m determined to stay on it as it brings my chance of recurrence down to 8% for the next 10 years. Has anyone else experienced a change in mood or depression since starting anastrozole. Did it get better over time? Thanks to anyone that can share their experience!

Yes I really feel the ‘feeling heard’ comment you make - I think this is so important and find the comments on this site are genuinely helpful, not just a case of people ‘having a moan’.