AI estrogen blocker choices: Armidex or Generic Anastrozole?

jpBCfree

I and a 52 yo post menopausal woman and this summer I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Type II DCIS (her2-, ER 92% positive, PR5% positive) with Oncotype 14 as score and had double mastectomy (irregular cells in other spots of both breast). Don't need radiation since removed breast tissue + not in sentinel node. My oncologist informed that Chemo won't improve chances of recurrence but strongly suggesting AI pill (which I'm not starting until reconstruction finished in October). I'm concerned about AI side effects such as losing my bones, mood, joint pain, depression etc. I am fit and active and have a young daughter and my quality of life is important to me....so is surviving so I will take the pill.

Dr. prescribed AI generic for Armidex made by Accord. I've been searching the boards for other experiences and seems like the brand name ARMIDEX seems to cause less side effects in most women, and second to that the generic Anastrozole made by Teva. My oncologist doesn't appear as convinced of differences (but then she is not taking the meds and dealing with many more immediate life threatening cases). I do believe that patients often have valuable insight due to such things.

Wondering if any of you have experience with drug varieties? Researched this?

Thanks for sharing ...it takes a village to beat cancer!x

muska

I have been on anastrozole made by Accord for the past 2.5 years. So far so good, my bones and mind are still there and I am fully functional. You can start with the generic that your onc prescribed and if you experience major issues switch to the brand name arimidex. The difference if it exists might be in the fillers, not in the main component. Keep in mind that the purpose of the drug - be it generic or brand name - is to stop estrogen production, so you most likely will experience some side effects from lack of estrogen like dryer skin and vaginal dryness whether you are on anastrozole or arimidex.

Please remember that people who post on these boards are usually the ones who have issues. Those who don't have issues don't post here.

Meow13

i was on the generic anastrozole for 2.5 years. My side effects were cumulative i developed ringing in one ear and had ankle and hip joint pain gained over 20 pounds. One day i called my doctor because the pain was so bad and he switched me to exemestane. A little less pain with it more ear ringing and weight gain. I am off of AI drugs and feel pretty good still have ear ringing. My bone scan was normal for my age.

I am currently trying to unload 30 pounds via diet and exercise. So far losing about 3 pounds a week.