Who has chosen not to take Tamoxifen or an AI such as Armidex?

yhendrix

Questions: Has anyone here chosen not to take Tamoxifen or an AI such as Armidex? Also, if you did take either what SE's did you have? Is there any research on DMX alone without taking these? What is the risk vs. benefit?

Goincrzy8

I was originally stage IIIC, MO did not start chemo, then started tx as Stage IV I have been on Arimidex since Feb 10. It is working wonders, no major SE's to complain of. Since I had no chemo, and she put me right on the pill, I want to make sure its working. Due to LMX surgeon did not get clear margins and wants Radiation. I will start Radiation Therapy tomorrow. I have grandkids I need to see grow up so I am going to do whatever they want me to do to live a long happy life.

Good luck on your choice.

dtad

Yes, as many of you know I have chosen not to do anti hormone therapy. The main reason being because I already have a debilitating autoimmune disease. I'm just not willing to compromise my QOL any further. I'm doing several things to lower my estrogen naturally. I take DIM, melatonin, baby aspirin, mushroom extract and berberine to regulate my blood sugars. I have also lost 30 pounds since diagnosis and now have a normal BMI. I also try to exercise daily. I'm a little over 2 years out from diagnosis and so far so good. IMO weight loss and exercise is very underestimated. Unfortunately I don't think we are going to see too many studies on the recurrence rate of those of us who decide against anti hormone therapy. Good luck to all navigating this complicated disease..

yhendrix

That is encouraging dtad. You gave me some helpful tips on another thread. Much appreciated. My doctor really want's me to consider this. Even if I only take it every other day. I have Crohn's and my gut says don't take them. I'm doing several natural things as well to lower my estrogen and have lost 14 pounds since my diagnosis. Question: Did you have any node involvement?

dtad

yhendrix...Hi there. No I did not have lymph node involvement. IMO those of us who are dealing with a serious medical condition prior to BC diagnosis are in a entirely different situation. Unfortunately most BSs and MOs don't really take that into consideration because they are typical specialists that don't look at the whole picture. Good luck and keep us posted.