Experiences/feedback after 7 years of discontinuing anastrozole

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daisydel
daisydel Member Posts: 4
edited August 2021 in Hormonal Therapy - Before, During, and After

I'm at a point now of making a decision to stop taking anastrozole. I am finishing 7 years in July. My doctor said it was a personal choice to continue from 5 to 7. But now I might make a decision to discontinue and I'm nervous. I've had the BCI test and it's somewhat on the intermediate to low side of recurrence. I don't know. I would like to discontinue, but I'm a bit scared. Anyone have some feedback on years 7+ Thank you so much.

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  • Racy
    Racy Member Posts: 2,651
    edited June 2021

    Hello

    I have been taking Femara religiously for the past 10 years. I am afraid to stop it as I don't feel confident enough that I won't be diagnosed again. It was a very traumatic experience for me and I don't want to repeat it.

    I have bone density scans every two years to check for any deterioration. My bones are fine, therefore my oncologist is happy with my decision to continue medication.

    I hope whatever you decide works out well for you.

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  • daisydel
    daisydel Member Posts: 4
    edited June 2021

    Thank you for your kind reply. I’m scared too. I’ve been taking anastrozole religiously for 7 years and my bone density is not too bad. I’m a runner and eat healthy. I wonder how my body would feel not taking it. Would I feel better ie more energy, etc. I’ll be seeing my dr in 10 days. That’s great you are doing well! So you will continue taking it for more than 10 years? May I ask how old you are

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  • Racy
    Racy Member Posts: 2,651
    edited June 2021

    I am 59. Yes, I am continuing.

    I just read a research article on BCO about risks of heart disease from these medicines and the importance of having regular cardio reviews if an individual has risk factors.

    I have controlled high blood pressure and big family history of strokes. I have had heart tests in the past with no irregularities found. I have a healthy BMI.

    Just another factor that may influence your decision if you have cardio risk factors. The article is on the last page of BCO research articles in the Active Topics.

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  • daisydel
    daisydel Member Posts: 4
    edited June 2021

    I am 59 too! I was reading an interesting article just now about how estrogen is found in the liver etc. Maybe I’ll just stick with it. It’s not that bad. And my heart is in great shape. I had a cardiac work up a few months ago and it was very good. I’m so glad you wrote me. I seriously can see myself continuing with the anastrozole. The years seem to fly by anyway and I, much like you, I rather be proactive than uncertain. Thanks again so much. I haven’t talked to anyone about this. Just keep things to myself.

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  • daisydel
    daisydel Member Posts: 4
    edited August 2021

    Thanks again for your experience. After discussing with my oncologist, we agreed I will be staying on the anastrozole for the full 10 years. She said that 10 years is the max.

    Wishing you well.

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