Tamoxifen and PEs

TeddyBlack

I was just diagnosed with multiple pulmonary embolisms related to taking tamoxifen for the last 4 years. Now they want to put me on Arimidex. I have osteoporosis already and I was pre menopausal before my dx. Any thoughts?

Moderators

Welcome to BCO TeddyBlack. We are sorry to hear about your difficulties with Tamoxifen and we are glad that you reached out to the members here in our community. While you are waiting for others to offer their thoughts you may want to check out this page that offers comparisons of the various hormonal therapies. We look forward to hearing more from you. The Mods

TessaW

I will never encourage someone to take Arimidex.  I had SEVERE bone and joint pain on that med, to the point I was using a walker. My once switched me to tamoxifen. 

vlnrph

Teddy, are you currently on something for the osteoporosis such as a bisphosphonate like alendronate/Fosamax or Boniva? You probably already know about the importance of calcium with vitamin D in addition to regular weight bearing exercise in maintaining bone health.

If your tumor was highly estrogen dependent, a few more months of hormone suppression might be worth it, getting you to a 5 year total. My doctor insisted on two sets of blood tests (FSH, etc.) to prove I was menopausal before switching from tamoxifen to an aromatase inhibitor.

Not everyone has adverse reactions as debilitating as what Tessa describes - looks like she's might have tried Femara according to her signature. I have been fine with it, secure in the knowledge that I am avoiding further cancer with one of the strongest methods available. Morning stiffness is relieved once I stretch & get moving.

That being said, you have certainly been through an ordeal with that diagnosis of pulmonary embolisms. I hope there are no other long term side effects and that you can determine what risks you are comfortable with for future therapies. Let us know what you decide and how it goes!