Got my prescription for Arimidex.... starting tomorrow

Anonymous

Hi Everyone,

Went to the MO and got my prescription for Arimidex with all the prescribing info. I wanted to start it after I return from my cruise on May 5th but he did not advise that and said the sooner the better so tomorrow will be the day! He also told me to buy Caltrate and take one pill twice a day... It contains calcium and 600 mg of Vitamin D which he says will help protect the bones.. I also take 2000 mg of Vitamin D so I had my blood drawn today to test the level in my blood to see if more or less of it is needed

I asked if it is best to take it in the AM or PM and was told it did not matter and do whatever is more convenient for me... Since I take blood pressure and Cholesterol medication in the AM I think I will just add the Arimidex to the morning ritual..

Do you have any suggestions as to what time is best to take it or what I should look at for?

I appreciate everyone's support and encouragement on this journey..

Diane

Smurfette26

Hoping you have minimal side effects from the Arimidex Diane. I originally started taking it in the AM as like you I was taking meds for Cholesterol and BP. I have now switched to taking it in the PM and find this works better for me. Find I am sleeping better. It's trial and error I think. Just see what suits you best. My Oncologist has advised me to have a break from it as I have experienced some side effects which are impacting my quality of life. I'm quite frightened of stopping it but my Onc assures me that a "drug holiday" for a couple of weeks is ok. When I resume I am trying a different brand in the hope that my SE may lessen. Thinking of you and wishing you well. Donna.

gerrib

Hi Dianne.

I started a week ago and haven't noticed any effects at all, but maybe it just hasn't built up in my system yet. I take it in the morning. I cannot take calcium tablets as they cause major constipation issues for me. i just incorporate more calcium containing foods into my diet. Have you been advised to have a baseline bone mineral density scan? Aromatase Inhibitors, of which Arimidex is one, can cause bone loss which can lead to osteoporosis.

Good luck

Gerri

JoniB

Nachout818 wishing you a good experience with the Arimidex. I find out my RX this Friday. My co-worker's sister is on an AI and was very worried about SE. She has now been on them for 4 years without a problem. It's giving me hope.

Jojo0529

the side effects were the worst the first few weeks but get better over time

ElaineTherese

Not on Arimidex, but Aromasin (another AI). I found that it was best to take my pill in the morning, after I'd eaten something. But, it's trial and error. See what works for you! By the way, the side effects may wane after time. After 8 months on Aromasin, my hot flashes have seriously diminished.

Best wishes!

Denise-G

If you notice any dizziness, my MO said to take the pill at night. My sister (Stage 3 survivor) just started 3 weeks ago - but she did get a little dizzy. It will go away if you experience it. I now take the pill in the morning. I've been on Arimidex for 3.5 years. Any SEs I had have improved greatly.

Sending my best and ENJOY THAT CRUISE!!!