Concerned about the side effects of anastrozole

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.

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. I also was given anastrozole first - after 6 months my hands, Shoulders and toes hurt so bad. I threatened to go off all meds if it was not switched. They sent me to a rheumatologist to eliminate my hand pain as arthritis. I was finally switched to exemestane and after about 2 or 3 months the joint pain faded. I don't know if she first prescribed the initial drug because of insurance. Good luck reaching the 5 year mark.

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.

Thankyou I’ll try taking that night.
In fact my Dr also suggested I try taking it at night. I’ll let you know the results.
All the best

@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 started it on Thanksgiving evening. My main problem is joint aches. I feel like an old lady when I’m trying to get up from a chair, my hips, my back my shoulders and now my thumb I am more tired than I’ve ever been. I take an afternoon nap. I am going to try it for six months and then reevaluate. . Hope that helps.

I take mine between eight and nine in the evening that way I feel like I am sleeping through the worst of it. By 2 to 3 PM in the afternoon to take a short nap.

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 had terrible insomnia on this drug as well as on exemestane. It never made me sleepy. I tried CALM for sleep - gummies. Took 2 before bed time & it helped a lot.