For Arimidex (Anastrozole) users, new, past, and ongoing

Newbee, after surgery, internal radiation, I was put on Ariimidex.  I asked my oncologist why I needed to take it.  I didn't know that the adrenal glands produce estrogen.  When I did some research I found out that there are foods that increase estrogen.  I have a skin condition and when I had a bad rash on my legs I used tea tree oil (it also increases estrogen).   I always tried to keep up on taking a natural approach.  You need to talk to your doctor and do your homework.  This forum has been helpful and issues that concern me I will talk to my doctor about. 

I just came back from an appt with my PCP to discuss my Dexa scan results (-2.7). He wants me to begin Fossamax.  I'm just wondering if anyone else is on it and if so, what side effects are you experiencing.

I've been on Arimidex for almost 2 months and I'm having some stomach issues which he told me Fossamax can also cause.

Thank you  

I had hair loss that seems to have contnued after being on Arimidex for 1 1/2 years. I finally went to a PA who specializes in Dermatology yesterday.  He said it "may" be due to Arimidex, but it was not common (haha) He said likely losing job, two surgeries, having to move, and radiation all contributed to stress and hair loss, and that after pregnancy women take up to 1 1/2 years to start getting thier hair back.  He said to use Biotin 2500mcg instead of the 1000mcg I was taking, to stabilize the hair root,  continue to  use"men's" Rogaine OTC.  And he will look into Procecia (sp) So I  hope that and time will help.

The Mystery Dough Boy Belly which my polite Onc says I don't have, I will look into that app that some of you mentioned for your phone.  Can I get that on my iphone? I am new to the stupid iphone, it's for work, but they let me use it. What is it called again? I landed in the middle of the thread and can't find it again!

Thanks!

I even worry about taking Biotin for my hair loss....I am never sure what is OK with all the meds I take. or what isn't.

I forgot to mention one thing.  I took the once a year injection to stop bone loss (a few years back).  I am borderline osteoporosis.  I had to think about taking Arimidex.  I was given the choice.  After talking to my gynecologist, I decided the benefits from Arimidex out weighed the bad.  Hope I don't have to go back on something for my bones.  I stopped the medicine after having trouble with my jaw clicking (not talking about a little). 

The dermatologist my onc recommended (deals with a lot of cancer patients and hates taxotere) was pleased to see I was taking biotin. Also the biotin I take from the Vitamin Shoppe…

"Does Not Contain:
Yeast, Wheat, Sugar, Salt, Soy, Dairy,Citrus, Fish, Artificial Colors or Flavors Added."

Also note that the jury is still out on soy. The amount that is used in some capsules is so minute I know I wouldn't worry about it. I do avoid processed soy but still have my hot & sour soup at Sun Wah in Chicago.

Biotin can be made with soy but many are not so read your bottle.

schoolmom I had my bone density tested before chemo and I too have osteopenia (no surprise given my frame and family history). I had a huge drop after chemo but that was to be expected because I was tossed into chemopause. Now I'm not losing all that much. Last year is was barely anything although my spine is -2.3. Osteopenia is not osteoporosis. I'm not being treated. Just take extra calcium, D and exercise per my doctors orders. I've been on Anastrozole 2+ years.

I have to eat Chinese food. It's required of all Jews. It's Jewish Soul Food!

I love Chinese food, and eat it when I can.  I really don't worry about soy.  Since finding out about my cancer, I have had to really evaluate things.  I have changed my diet and lost weight, so that is good.  Also walking a lot more.  I have never been the slightest bit athletic, but the walking I do enjoy.  My DH is tall and when we walk our dogs we walk at a fairly good clip.  I have made a lot of healthy changes (I have lost 50 pounds in three years) and quit smoking. I find I can balance my diet and still be 'bad'.  I pretty much eat what I enjoy, but of course in moderation.  I fall off the food wagon now and then but for the most part I have been really good.  My DH has always been reed thin but quit smoking almost three years ago and he has gained weight, but I think the extra weight suits him.  He was really bony.  He cracks me he is more neurotic about gaining weight than I am.  I feel good, and I guess that is what counts. 

Jazzygirl, I will be starting tomorrow! It is a bit scary but we can keep in touch and see how it is going? I hope you will do well!!

I got biotin from the Vitamin Shop.  They are 1mg.  How much should I begin with?  After reading some of the signs of a biotin shortage I was shocked.  I have several of them and my dermatologist never said anything about taking it.  I will like to see if it clears up some of my skin issues.  On another note, I increased my trazodone to 75 mg (she said I could take up to 100 mg).  I think I am sleeping a little better; however, getting asleep is still a problem (unfortunately my husband snores and that doesn't make it any better).

Hi Ladies, I am touching base since being gone for awhile from this place. I have been off A since July 1st. All the sore joint stuff is over. I do have borderline high Cholesterol and am working to get that down with more exercise. I live in a snowy place now and have been staying inside for the past months. brrrrr. Anyone who went through the 5 years have their cholesterol levels elevate and stay up for awhile after stopping treatment? I am 6 years older as well. sigh. My best to everyone.

Lorna

Bedo, I found you!  Have been lurking on our dinner thread but not posting -- dealing with prep for my own BMX, don't want to ruin everyone's dinner.  What's happening?  Will you PM me?

Because I am one of the triplets, it could not be said that I am stalking you

Hugs, Bobogirl

Anyone getting Prolia shots?  If so any side effects?