When to expect side effects to begin...

elise24601

I started Lupron a week ago, and will begin Arimidex in 3 weeks (once ovaries are fully shut down).

So far I don't feel any different but of course I'm super worried about side effects. When will I notice: hot flashes, night sweats, hair and skin changes, sex drive and vaginal changes, weight gain? Are these gradual or will they hit me at a certain point? Being prepared will help me mentally.

ElaineTherese

Hi!

I'm doing Zoladex + Aromasin. I think the first side effect to show up for me was the hot flashes/warm flushes. They are most apparent in the evening hours. I sleep under a ceiling fan every night. I felt the next side effect (moodiness, depression) after three weeks. MO prescribed Celexa, and that was gone. Otherwise, I haven't had any side effects except perhaps weight gain, and that's been gradual. I should note, however, that I have always had oily skin and greasy hair (which has to be washed daily), so I would be less likely to notice any drying out. Best wishes, and hoping your SEs are mild!

elise24601

thanks Elaine, can I ask how old you are and how long you have been on that regimen?

Meow13

The side effects for me on AI drugs was gradual. After about 6 months I had my right ear start to ring, still rings, then joint pain and arthritis. At about 1.5 years the pain on anastrozole could not be ignored. I had developed some trigger finger as well. Thank goodness no hair loss but I had gained 25 pounds. I took exemestane it was a little better but still had pain. Now that I am off the pain has really decreased. Still have arthritis, no more trigger finger and my ear still rings.

7of9

Hi Elise,

I had a hysterectomy with ooph last January. I was in semi-pause thanks to chemo a few years ago but did notice some night sweats, aches and zero sex drive (unless watching a Gerard Butler movie! Thank you Phantom of the Opera!). I'm not sure what aches come from what treatments having had chemo 2x plus rads once and being on Arimidex religiously since last year. It's doable. That little pill helps me feel like I'm fighting!

ElaineTherese

Elise,

I started Zoladex + Aromasin in February 2015 when I was 47 years old. I'm now 49, and doing OK.