Everything you need to know about Anastrazole and Letrozole || Dr Liz O'Riordan
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 31 พ.ค. 2024
- Everything you need to know about Anastrazole and Letrozole || Dr Liz O'Riordan
This video will tell yu everything you need to know about Anastrazole and Letrozole - Which is better? How they work? Who needs them? How to cope with the side effects? Why they stop working.
00:00 Intro
00:32 Which is better - Anastrazole or Letrozole?
00:56 How does your doctor know which one to prescribe?
01:12 How do Anastrazole and Letrozole work?
02:35 Why can’t pre-menopausal women have them?
03:07 The 7 reasons the drugs are used to treat breast cancer
06:18 How long do you take them for?
07:20 Why don’t you have them for 10 years?
07:46 How do you take them?
08:05 Do you need a bone health supplement?
08:32 Why do they cause side effects?
10:15 How to cope with the side effects
10:36 How to prevent bone thinning and fractures
11:42 How to cope with muscle, bone and joint aches and pains
12:56 How to cope with fatigue
14:23 What if you’re still struggling to cope with the side effects?
15:17 BONUS: How can breast cancer come back if you’re taking an aromatase inhibitor?
Links
Website - liz.oriordan.co.uk/
Author ‘Under The Knife’ and ‘The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer’
Podcast - So Now I've Got Breast Cancer
Instagram @oriordanliz
Twitter @Liz_ORiordan
Financial Disclosure www.sunshineuk.org/doctor/1179...
In this informative TH-cam video, we delve into the differences between Anastrazole and Letrozole, two commonly prescribed medications for breast cancer treatment. Learn about their mechanisms of action, side effects, and effectiveness to help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.
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#BreastCancer #TreatmentOptions #MedicationComparison - วิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยี
I had difficult weeks during initial start of my Anastrozole treatment, my hip and knee pain were so unbearable and I could not walk. I’m 52 years old and I felt like I’m 80. I felt like stopping it but I knew my tumor was 95%estrogen receptor positive and 5% progesterone +.
I started regular exercises, and wore compression stockings (30mmHG grade) while on my feet at work, I work long hours standing as an RN. My symptoms eased up and I felt better. However, my cholesterol is up. My doctor will recheck and we will see.
So fellow anastrozole users, it gets better , hang in there
Did letrazole w zometa infusions for a year, suffered massive bone pain and developed arthritis in one hand. Changed to anastrazole w zometa infusion (every 6 months) instead. Slighly better but still bone pain, esp after infusion. Also 2x to emerg w flashing lights in my eyes which turned out to be vitreous detachment (yes, can be related to anastrazole) and needed laser treatment to shore that up. Have gained 40 lbs and excercise is torture. My oncologist blames everything on age, and is not helpful. I feel 10 years older than when I started meds. Conflicted on what to do but we have to make choices. I used to be in superb shape, a gym bunny. Now live in fear of breaking bones and hobble down stairs.
I try to work out why I always feel so emotional during all these Podcasts/TH-cam videos etc ... I think it's because this time last year, I had NO clue I had breast cancer; thank the Lord for mammograms. I am 63, never smoked, don't drink, eat healthily blah! blah!! Despite being caught early, Her2+/ER- and the op., tests and treatments going as planned, now on Letrazole - to date ..... no side effects ...... I guess I never imagined I would be selfishly hanging on Liz's every word, reassured by her knowledge, expertise and lived experience. How blessed are we to have such a professional in a sea of alternative this and integrated that! I shall get over myself, count my lucky stars and try to stop worrying ..... :)
I'm almost 5 years bc survivor stage 3 estrogen positive. I will continue total 10 years zoladex and anastrozole. I don't like side effects but keep cancer away and I'm thankful be alive.Side effects:low libido,dry skin,sleep issues,stiff muscles but I walk every day 4 miles that really help and taking every 6 months zimeta prevent osteoporosis.
Why don’t you take breast cancer index test which determines if 5 more years offers any benefits?
doesn't keep cancer away, just reduces re occurrence
Kudos to you for adding a piece of info not shared often. Heck, this was not even hinted to me except by an oncologist friend that I play tennis with. The body sometimes takes awhile to get used to the drug and symptoms may diminish over time.
Time only to me meant a month or two but after three months the effects were unbearable. It took awhile to get an appointment to consider switching meds but….then I noticed some improvement. Like really?
Eight months in and I’m considering sticking with Anastrozole at three months there was no joy to be had, consistently.
The fact that you mentioned that symptoms may get better after a year to a year and a half gives me a clearer picture of possibilities as opposed to a finite state. It is something in the mix of my decision making and I’m glad you mentioned it.
Your channel is providing nuances, nuances that I’m not coming across otherwise. My gut feeling is it is because of your personal journey with Cancer.
Keep up the good work.
Thank you Dr Liz for these videos. I was started on Letrozole right after surgery in January. Because of your information regarding the importance of exercise including weight bearing and resistance and maintaining a healthy body weight, I started a workout program as soon as my surgeon said it was ok. I have shed 50 pounds and have steadily increased my ability to use heavier weights/bands/etc. I have mild to moderate hot flashes most days which are a not pleasant but have not had the joint pain or many days of extreme fatigue so many women experience. (I still work out on those days-it does help!). My oncologist is very supportive of my efforts and agrees 100 percent with what you said . Thank you for making a positive difference. We are all different and some of us may have issues anyway but I hope women will give it a go. I know it has helped me. Anything we can do to lower chance of recurrence is good in my book
Oh you are simply amazing!!!
YOU are the amazing one!!!@@DrLizORiordan
Thank you❤
16:52 This video left me speechless. I felt as though you were talking to me only. Two days ago I was at my wits end due to experiencing ever single side effect you mentioned, including osteoporosis … this last one really got to me. So I called my good doctor and told her I’m stopping the exemestane .. I can’t do this anymore. She talked me into taking a 2 week break and that I might consider Tamoxifen, because it’s kinder to the joints and bones. So, because of all your wonderful info, I’ll give it a go. What are your thoughts on receiving Prolia while on Tamoxifen? Research on it has shown that the group of women on it actually GAINED 8.8% of bone! I believe this study was done in the UK. I’m certain I’m driving my oncologist mad with all these thoughts and not knowing where to turn because I know she’s only human but it feels good talking with you because you’ve been through it. You are one of us. The fatigue and uncertainty of doing the right thing is .. I have no words. Bless you for staying strong for all of us.
Yes, the uncertainty of what to take to keep cancer from coming back vrs the potentially brutal side effects of totally blocking estrogen is nerve wracking.
I stopped, Anastrozole became too debilitating, be careful I had no symptoms, on Tamoxifen (as aches and pains came in) I had a whine so sent for a scan, showed a pulmonary embolism , off that on an anticoagulant which was horrendous caused blackouts and severe spinning out of control
OMG, after the trauma of cancer you had more trauma. I am so sorry. It's unfair. @@user-ck9ng8tp4l
Thank you for educating us and your kindness whilst you go through the cancer process yourself
Just used the NHS predict there is a 4% lower survival rate for me over 15 years with my info and assuming that the lymph nodes are negative. I had surgery 2 weeks ago fingers crossed for biopsy results of sentinel nodes. Hoping I’m still low risk as I will be considering not taking them at all as I am nearly 68. Thank you for all of your videos they have been such a support to me over the recent weeks. Bless you for your kindness.
Similar - had surgery 5 years ago at 62. Predict stated 2% improvement with clear lymph nodes. Chose not to take it and so happy. An alternate proposed by Onc was annual mammograms, which I took up and have requested they continue annually.
@@archkod thank you so much I will ask at my next appt x
How do we find the NHS predictor, and why did my doc not offer this? I had a lumpectomy for a 1 cm tumor and clear sentinel nodes? I did radiation, started Anastrozole and had terrible side effects which left me unable to maintain any quality of life or keep up with basic chores. Going to the grocery store required a 2-3 hr nap afterwards. Same with walking. Why am I having to take anti-estrogen drugs? I'd rather have quality of life.
@@cindy-ry3kp google 'Predict Breast’ and it will ask details of your diagnosis then will show your predicted survival rate - it is a personal decision but if your having QoL issues and your predict model indicates your at low risk ask your Onc to stop and alternately go on annual mammograms. I am certain your onc did review Predict for your case. good luck. k
Who still trusts the NHS after all of their corruption is being exposed everywhere? See Barbara O’Neill who has helped people cure stage four cancers with diet and healthy lifestyle alone .
Thanks a lot Dr. i really appreciat .you answer all my question better than my oncologist i pray for your health .
Thank you so much Dr Liz, I appreciate your videos! I am about to start radiation now having undergone chemo & major surgeries (bilateral mastectomy & hysterectomy).
I hate cancer!
Thank you for your kindness & offering hope. I am praying for you.
Super-great explanation of these drugs, how they work, and why they're prescribed! Thank you!
Thank you Dr. Liz for you amazing videos. I just completed surgery, chemo and radiotherapy and will start Letrozole in a couple of weeks. Your videos are extremely helpful, they cover many of the questions i often don’t have the time to ask my doctor during the short consultations
I’m sooooo pleased I’ve found your chanel 💕
Thank you ❤
Very useful and succinct video. I was prescribed Letrozole yesterday by the onco registrar (didn't even get to speak to the onco consultant). I was given no information whatsoever on what to expect and how to manage the symptoms so I'm glad I found this video. I'm starting taking it tonight and absolutely in dread - I hope I'm one of those with minimum side effects...
Thank you that was really helpful
This is great I wish I had this video 4 years ago! On Letrozole and only now I’m understanding the side effects. Luckily for me I’m keeping fit which helps.
Brilliant video, thanks Liz. Very helpful.
Your videos are so helpful . Thank you so much for your work❤
Thank you
I started with Letrozole and was switched to Anastrozole due to Letrozole continuing to raise my cholesterol. The APRN coordinated with the oncology pharmacist and the studies showed that over 50% of people on Letrozole had an increase in cholesterol levels. We will see on my next bloodwork if the switch helped.
I've been on anastrozole for 18 months. I developed high cholesterol, fatigue, and bone pain. I hope switching to it helps you. I am just going to try to hang in there until my 5 years are complete.
@@AdrienneKushner-qi6cl
My cholesterol also has skyrocketed on Anastrozole after 2.5 years!
I am worried it will not come down until I'm off these meds! 5 yrs total on Endocrine therapy for me was last month but my new oncologist says that staying on Anastrozole for 5 yrs is better at preventing recurrence I'm now taking it only 2x a week because of my research on intermittent dosing of Letrozole and Exemestane and the fact that Anastrozole has the Longest Half Life of 50-60 hrs and Letrozole is 48hrs & Exemestane is 24 hrs.
My bone pain and swelling of ankles is much better and more able to tolerate! Bev
My cholesterol won't be ck'd again until November but I'm talking Spirulina to help bring it down as well as more exercises and eating more fruits & veggies mostly cruciferous vegetables!
www.webmd.com/diet/spirulina-health-benefits
I like your videos. I am learning a lot from you. Thanks
Thanks for the video, could we have the promised video about Exemestane please 🙏
Thank you such a great and helpful information. God bless you!❤
Thank you so much!
You're welcome!
😊thank you so much for these very useful information. I look forward to seeing your blog every week.
You are so welcome!
Thank you Liz for this super informative video, I'm now reassured that I've been prescribed the best combo of the drugs available these days: 7 years letrozole with ibandronic acid for 3 years to potect my bones, plus the calcium vit D supplement. Yoga is my go to weight bearing exercise, plus fast walking when I find the time (working from home full-time can make one stay seated too long)
Thank you for such an informative video. I am about to start anastrozole after taking tamoxifen for the past 7 months. Hoping I dont get much side effects. Will continue watchinh your videos.
You explain very well, thanks!
Thanks for watching and subsciribing!
Thank you, really helpful and straightforward as always ❤
You're so welcome!
Excellent video. I'll exercise 1 or 2 days then lie around. Your video has motivated me to get moving. Thank you so much.
Very informative as always. Thanks you Dr💗
My pleasure 😊
Thank you so much for this importand information. I wll have a better understanding of thes medications when my oncologist prescibes one for me.
I love how you present the information.
Thank you so much Dr. Liz, I’m on year 3 of Letrozole my joints ache
Like crazy. Plus I have Lymphodema in my right arm. Trying to get back into regular exercise now will add some weight bearing. I’m going watch all your videos. I’ve also got your book.
Great video thank you so much. Had my first Zoladex last Thursday and being switched from Tamoxifen to Letrozole in next two or three weeks. Hoping it’s kind to me 🙏
I had stage zero insitu breast cancer. Very slow growing. Do you think I am at enough risk to warrant taking anastrozole? I have been taking it for a year. I worry about my bones and high cholesterol. Thanks for the video.
thanks a lot dr liz you really understand the pain we go through it was a big help for me i live in canada and cold weather doesnot help so every day i use heat hat and helps for the headacke and light excersise every morning help my join paint a lot drinking milk cheese and butter small piece everyday give the energy i cany go gem but i lift the 2 pond everyday with my 2 hand and i turn my wrist in different way with lifting overal abouth 1 hour per day and15 minuts walk in evening .i am in my second year of taking latrazol and i feel stronger apreciate for all detailexplanation and takecare.
Thank you so helpful. Why did you find taking it at night is better I'd like to ask dear Liz?
I am interested about what you are talking doc I always watch and I learn also about breast cancer
Thank you for the very useful talk. I am on anastrazole and have osteopenia. I am afraid to take my calcium due known side affects like calcification of the arteries causing cardiovascular issues, I have a terrible family history.
I am also afraid to take my alendronic acid tablet due to jaw necrosis, I have advanced gum disease and my dentist is against the drug for my use. I don't know where to turn. Regards Annette
Thank you so much. Such an informative video. I was on tamoxifen for just over three years until my hysterectomy and am now on letrazole for the remaining just under two years. Is that right, or should I have longer on it? Thanks
Thank you, my Oncologist had none of this information for me. I recently had my 4th of 6 twice a year Zometa infusions to counter the lack of estrogen in bones.
Thank you dr Liz! Do you recommend weight lifting (light weight) in the gym if I had axillary node dissection? I heard that it can increase the chance of lymphedema. Thank you
Fascinating about the possibility of cells in my blood. I've already had recurrences, 1 whilst on Tamoxifen for the 2nd time, which is.maybe why the Oncologist may keep me on Letrozole for longer than 5 years. Time will tell. Thanks for the information you provide.
My family have a background about breast cancer and 1 am 45 yrs old that's why I'm very interested about your explanation
Thank you Liz for your wonderful videos and podcast. I am also a health care worker with an aggressive BC and am navigating the maze of treatment options. I will finish Kadcyla in March and then start an AI. Your videos have been so helpful in providing sound information. Could you discuss how CDK inhibitors work and who should take them? I am also looking for more information on Ki67 and how that might impact treatment decisions. Your story has inspired me not to beat myself up for not detecting my breast lump sooner and encouraged me to continue moving forward and not looking back!
I've got a video all about the CDK inhibitors - look for the playlist Breast Cancer Drugs
Thank you Liz this is so helpful. I stopped taking exemestane in July after taking for almost 9 years. My hot flushes have reduced so much and I have a general feeling of well being that I definitely didn’t have when I was taking it. However, now I worry about cancer coming back, my cancer was ER+ grade 3, stage 2. My GP contacted the oncologist to check with them that it was ok for me to come off and the message came back yes. Is there anyway I can get more insight into my PREDICT results or is it likely I might get an appointment with my oncologist, do you know?
Outstanding information 🌺u explained it so much better then my oncologist 🌺
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Doctor, I listened and I am on exemestane. I just started along with Lupron. I was not menopausal but put into menopause. I was looking for your video about exemestane. I didn’t know it’s steroidal. I don’t want steroids, more so since I have to take for 10 years. What’s your opinion on it?
Thanks for this video . I am taking anaztraole for my DCIS stage 1 diagnosis, just 4 months into it . The fatigue and sometimes hot flashes sucks!!!😩
Yes they do!
Thank you for your useful information, can i ask please, i got breast cancer in 2019 stage 2 age 47 and i took hormone therapy just for 3 months
my question is please if i start now it would help me ?
Thank you
Thankyou for making such informative videos. Pls guide me on below case. My mother is 71 years old and had undergone mastactomy last month. Post surgery on biopsy 2 tumors were identified. One of 1.2 cm invasive with ductal and lobular growth and second tumor of 2cm encapsulated pepellary carcinoma. All nodes are clear. On IHC both tumors are strong ER+ PR+ (8/8) and her 2 neu equivocal which is later negative in Fish test. She is on insulin as diabetic and hypertention. Pls guide now what further treatment she would require. Thanks in anticaption of the same
So helpful as always. With high cholesterol with AIs do you recommend a statin?
A lot of people who has high cholesterol recommend not to take statin because it is toxic for your body.
I have learned so much from your videos. I wanted to say that I’m taking Anastrozole as a preventative. I’m BRCA 2 +.
So I haven’t had cancer. What are your thoughts on this?
Where in the country do you live? Some hospitals do a 'show and tell' presentation, of options for surgery for either cancer prevention or reconstructions after cancer. Search 'show and tell' for your nearest hospital. They give good advice on aftercare... wound care, infection prevention, scar minimisation etc. Information worth knowing for any surgery.
Ive had large surge in BP after starting Anastrozle . I've also joint pain making it hard to walk sometime. I'm a gym member for 30 years. I've read Anastrozle stays in your system for 50 hours , I'm thinking of trying taking it every 48 hous instead of daily instead of giving it up completely .
I took mine once per week and still suffered from knee and other joint pain. I refuse to take another pill!
I had a huge spike in BP too from anastazole of only one month on it. Actually frightened me. Family doc said to get off the anastazole asap and Onc said to just take a break from the med. Won’t the med make the BP climb again if I go back on it?
@briggettecammett6181 yes it definitely will. These oncologist can care less! Do what's best for you at the end of the day!
I've been taking just every second day about 8 weeks now. My BP is dropping now. I'm taking 2 BP meds after starting Anastrozole and it was uncontrolled despite taking them . Reducing it too every second day appears to be working.
Didn't work for me
Hi! Thank you for the video. Could you please tell me more about the 'need' of radiotherapy as well as letrozole after the surgery removed the 9 mm lump that hasn't spread to the lymph (the 2 sentinel lymph nodes removed did not show cancer cells under lab exam). I'm 55 yrs old, in menopause for 2 years, estrogen and progesterone positive, her negative. What are the chances of reincidence if I don't do the radiotherapy, but only take the hormone treatment.
Also, how can one access that app for predicting the reincidence?
Thank you so much ! Blessings!! 💖
Dr. Liz, I have learned so much from your videos. At 71 I was diagnosed with IDC. Multiple biopsies, mammograms and then surgery. Then radiation everyday for one month. I am currently on Letrozole 2.5. The muscle body aches are the worst. I’m terrified of bone density. Should I start a calcium supplement now?
Talk to your medical team about it. I've been on letrozole for a year now. Did a bone density scan in June, which showed I have osteopenia. To prevent further deterioration I now get Zometa every 6 months and take calcium supplement 3 times per week as my calcium level according to blood test is normal. It is very important to consult with your dentist before taking Zometa as it impacts dental health. The good news is that once you stop taking letrozole, the bone density goes back to what it would have been if you didn't take it. No need to be terrified, just follow the advice on bone density in this video and talk to your medical team)))
This so helpful and explained well , i got her2 positive breast cancer grade 1 ,i have had a mastectomy and my oncologist put me on Anastrozole, but have been suffering from real bad bone pain and Neuropathy in my hands and wrist, so he told me to stop taking Anastrozole and has put me on exemestane ,i looked into this and its a steroid , i really dont like taking steroids as they cause extreme weight gain ,so im worried about taking them ,im still suffering from bone pain and have been of Anastrozole for nearly 3 months, would i be better just going back onto them ? Not sure if i can risk the other medication
Thank you Dr. Liz for all the great information. Would you do a video on Mistletoe Therapy for breast cancer? What does the science say? Why is it so popular in Germany/Switzerland? Is IV or SubQ better? What brands are best (Helixor, Abnoba, Iscador)? Can it slow or inhibit tumor growth? Does it reduce recurrence? Some studies now suggest it does working along with traditional therapies. Please cover this major CAM therapy as a topic. It is getting a lot of news in the US lately too as the Johns Hopkins trial ramps up for Phase II.
Mistletoe Cancer Therapy is expected to be a big part of the future of integrative oncology in the US. It is already prescribed to over 60% of oncology patients in Europe. It is the most studied alternative therapy to date. CAM therapies need more coverage and understanding. It is not typically meant to be a stand alone therapy for active cancer treatment, but rather it is a powerful adjunct therapy that boosts the immune system, strengthens the body's innate ability to heal, decreases side effects and symptoms from primary cancer treatments and generates apoptosis (death) of cancer cells. It is essentially an adjunct immunotherapy that supports the entire system through disease states. It is an extremely protective overall system aide. It may inhibit tumor growth while staving off metastasis. The latest studies are showing significant promise and the research is underway on this at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.
But this is not a medical drug, it is an ancient plant-based medicine that has been in use since the time of the druids. This means that many aspects of what it does cannot be measured, because it works syngeristically with the system, with other medications, and with your own intuition about it. This way of being/thinking about medicine and healing is based on the principles of Anthroposophic medicine, which adhere to an underlying principal that goes unrecognized in Western medicine in terms of the body's innate ability to heal using its own inner wisdom and balancing mechanisms (homeostasis) which exist at the quantum mechanical level - none of which can be understood or examined as yet by our current gross-level modern science. Cancer is a microscopic problem, but our current science can barely understand it at the macroscopic level.
In this sense, Anthroposophic Medicine (AM) flies in the face of everything we think we know based on our current post-modern science and rational/logical paradigms of Cartesian dualism based intellect; which is often so caught up in materialist reductionism, that these aspects (somatic wisdom for example) are not only misunderstood, they are altogether missing. It will be up to the user to find their own unprescribed, unpremeditated meaning and value in the esoteric aspects of AM, when they choose to embark on the mistletoe journey. This is a different kind of wisdom. Embrace it if you can. It is beyond words and data. This information is only a sign post to point the way to this path.
Read more >>
Anthroposophic Medicine, Integrative Oncology, and Mistletoe Therapy of Cancer
academic.oup.com/.../chapter-abstract/303410701...
The Future of MT and Integrative Oncology
th-cam.com/video/ll7mhjwkh20/w-d-xo.html
Until a trial proves that it has a significant impact on cancer survival I don’t think it should be used to treat cancer.
@@DrLizORiordan Thanks but it is not meant to treat cancer. It is an adjunct therapy meant to help the system get through cancer. It reduces symptoms of cancer treatments like chemo and it helps promote apoptosis. Don't conflate this with being a clinical cancer treatment, no one is is saying it is that. But it is a powerful adjunct therapy. It is the most widely studied and prescribed adjunct therapy. Thousands of Germans, 60% of German cancer patients are on this, are on it for good reason. President Ronald Reagan and actress Suznne Somers both used it. Please learn more about the amazing history of this CAM option (dating back to the druids) and explore this more before you speak out on this. Not all complemntary alternative medicines (CAM) are just bunk to be pushed aside. Mistletoe Therapy is now in clinical trial at Johns Hopkins in the US. It just past Phase I. There is a scholarly and peer-reviewed report published by AACR available as open access online, just google it. It will be soon coming on board in the US as a powerful complementary therapy. It is worht noting and doing a full program on. I hope you will do ore than brush it aside. Your takes need to include more CAM options imho. There isnow enough evidence-based science to show that CAM options are (not as primary treatments) but in combination with clinical treatments should be noted and not brushed off. That's old school imho. And Dr. Liz you ar enot old school!Right!
Absolutely mistletoe tinctture l take also eassiac tea kills cancer
Hello Dr ORiordan i love your information have your anything more on metastic bc ( my situation) am male so most info online is geared towards females
I am taking letrozole and recently off ribo for a while anyway
My advice to anyone in this situation is to get busy living ❤
I had 2.3cm her2+ive bc... treatment was 6 rounds of TCH, surgery plus one lymph node which was clear, the cancer had reduced to 1.3cm at time of surgery! Then 19 radiation treatments and the 14 rounds of Kadcyla and now at the 10th round (its awful stuff too) ....
There was a trace of er positive and the oncologist has me listed to start letrozol soon after the targeted chemo, my body is struggling with pain all and need a break from treatment as 18 months is hard on body!
My question for you, if I have only a trace of oestrogen does this warrant a AI?!?!
I am 57, had a hysterectomy at 50 and now post menopause.... what are you thoughts please? 4:09 ! 4:57
I brought a treadmill, which is great when its to wet or cold to get out ,highly recommended
Discuss please ESR1. HER2-NEGATIVE ER/PR positive have nearly a 1 in 2 chance of developing a secondary cancer that is resistant to other medications within a few years. What is the point of taking it if cancer is going to return; and deal with serious side effects prior? Osteoporosis/joint pain, hair loss, high cholesterol, etc? Couldn't this cause one to also need extra meds leading up to polypharm?
Anastazole after one month made my blood pressure go very high. Doc said stop the med (family doc and onc). Should I go back on it? The drug also gave me headaches which I have never had. Also, could barely walk from joint and muscle pain. Does Letrozole have the same bad side effects?
I worry not taking an aromatase inhibitor.
I have mucinous breast cancer, grade 1, stage one, SNB negative. Oncotype 10. Please help!
Since on anastozole cant sleep well thus coursing my BP to shoot high please advise.
I'm at 3.5 years on Letrozole only. Started at 59... I'm 62 now.
My Oncologist checked whether I should stop at 5 years or carry on for several more.
She said that the results indicate that taking it longer would not be therapeutic.
Why would this be?
Should I request to continue?
Could you please tell if you were offered Bisphosphonates.I am on Anastrozol and at the same time was advised to take bisphosphonete.
I take this injection once a month, in addition to daily doses of Tamoxifen. Is that standard? I’m in survivorship for 2.5 years. I was diagnosed with breast and lymph nodes cancer at age 47, I’m now 50. My side effects this far is brain fog, and significant fatigue. I call it a “no go of energy “, like I come to a full stop. I feel like my temperature rises, I guess hot flashes. I also have a strong IDGAS which could be age related.
At minute 5 you say you had a recurrence with Tamoxifen. My oncologist recommends it to me. How high in percentage is the benefit of taking Tamoxifen? Do those calculators predict or adjuvant online give answers to this question?
Estrohalt? Any good?
Thank you Dr Liz. Q: If low grade er+ cells spread and grow remotely, do they grow at the same rate as the primary?
I was diagnosed with sever carpel tunnel in both wrists prior to my breast cancer diagnosis. I have had 2 rounds of steroid injections to manage the pain. I had my lumpectomy last year and then finished my radiation treatment in November. I am currently on Letrozole for the next 5 years - although it causes sever nausea so I only take it 3x a week currently. My oncologist wants me to gradually increase this if I am able. My question is, does Letrozole make my carpel tunnel worse? I have read that Letrozole can cause carpel tunnel but I have not found anything about managing both carpel tunnel and breast cancer. Thank you!
I am on Letrozole but about to add ribociclib. It is designed to interfere with the cells’ growth cycles. I need an EKG and blood work baselines because of potential heart and other side effects from the drug. Adding another drug is really frightening.
I know to can be - but think of it another tool that can reduce the risk of your cancer coming back
I am pre menopausal been on zolodex and letrozole for 2 and half years. My estrodoil level is 55, would it be that zolodex hasn't worked do you think?
Thank you fir your clear explanations.
After 10 years on Anastrozole then what? ( 8cm lobular tumor, 28/32 lymph nodes positive) afraid it will return if anastrozole stops) seeking advice!
How long you take Anastrozole?
How responsive is high ki67 to hormonal therapy and to chemo therapy?
Very
What if one is already disabled? Weight bearing exercise is not possible for all.
You mentioned a video to look for on your channel on Exemestane. Struggling to understand mostly because professionals are not making a differentiation and I can see that there is. The fact you mentioned the non steroidal as reversible brings me to my concern over switching to Exemestane.
Why am I looking at options to ask my oncologist? My cholesterol levels have jumped with Anastrozole plus I have Pagets of the bone. My understanding is that Exemestane threatens cardio issues as opposed to bones. Being post menopausal, I also wonder about if Tamoxifen is less taxing on bones although 20 percent less effective at staving away cancer reoccurrence.
My bone health is getting worse but not at a clip although my spine has improved. I was already on a course of Zoledronic acid and up to getting breast cancer I was steadily improving. I play tennis daily!
My guess is you haven’t gotten to this video yet, but if this is true these are the issues I hope you will cover.
You are the best!
I was switched from Letrozole to Exemestane because the Letrozole caused massive, frequent hot flashes. The oncologist said that they were similarly effective. He told me that Exemestane can cause bone thinning, so I have had 2 bone scans, which show osteopenia. So, it's possible that there are bone thinning effects with both of them.
I have found Exemestane easier to cope with because I no longer have continuous hot flashes. Now, it still happens several times per day, even after the smallest exertion. I merely pick up the broom and I am sweating before I do anything with it. I am allegedly taking calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K to manage the osteopenia. (I forget frequently). I won't know if my bones are getting thinner or stabilising for another 12 months.
I still get awful bone pain, but I tell myself it's a small price to pay for several years' peace of mind. My oncologist told me that my cancer was massively addicted to oestrogen; several times more oestrogen positive than most patients. Hence the effort to deal with it. I find myself worrying (when I remember that I had breast cancer) whether it will come back once I discontinue the hormone blocker.
Interestingly, I developed terrible pain in my feet. This prevents me from standing more than a couple of hours each day. My GP says it might be bone spurs. I'm supposed to get an Xray and then a referral to a podiatrist. I find myself wondering, if the hormone blocker causes bone thinning, how can I grow extra bone on my feet?
Hopefully some of this helps.
@@katykircher7413with so many decisions at the beginning this conundrum of whether to switch up meds seems to be the last decision left!
Crazy as it seems hot flashes are not the big symptom for me, sometimes a bit warm at night but that is it! (However I do adore spicy foods)
My big thing is that I constantly feel hung over, and I’m not drinking. What the heck.
My burning concern with Exemestane is that it creates permanent change unlike the other two, Letrozole and Anastrozole, which are reversible.
Best case scenario is that I have the option of stopping at five years and insofar a state of reversibility is a big factor in deciding what I do now. And who knows if they will come up with something in the meantime else to try. I’ve found it really hard to get info on this but did arrange an appointment with the pharmacist. I don’t even know if it;s a big deal or not but am thirsty to know more. This channel has been super great at exploring nuances and I’m hoping for more.
Luckily, or unluckily, I’ve got scans related to bone density because of a previous diagnosis of Paget’s of the bone. It was stopped in it’s tracks by the infusion of zoledronic acid. (Biphosphnonate…spelling). I had gotten that yearly for three years, the last given after my cancer diagnosis.
There has been a slight worsening of bone density with the aromatase inhibitor after a steady improvement before. The density of my spine continued to improve in an area that supposedly tennis is good for. I play 5 times a week. So I have a previous nuclear bone scan to compare with. No big changes there.
So…my next bone density scan will be in September. Decisions to perhaps add another injection will depend on that or even some kind of change of meds….like Tamoxifen.
Arghhhh….
However since Exemestane is on my radar it helps to hear of your decision and experience. You are not the only one I have heard tolerated it better than one of the other inhibitors. Thanks for that.
Video filmed this week so coming soon
Hi Dr Liz i hope your doing well also ;)
I am thanks x
I take let. nearly4 yrs now.n my bones r thin.Should I swap the medicine or take bones injections
I'm taking tamaxifin is it OK
Can you do a video about Exemestane ! I’m switching from letrozole to it because I’m suffering from joint pain etc…. Not sure if exemestane will do a difference
I’m filming it this week
How do the dr.s know if the rogue cell has come back as cancer?
Hi, Thank you for your amazing videos Dr O’Riordan. I take a 60ml cold pressed Immunity Support turmeric shot supplement from the Tumeric Co, containing Organic tumeric root, ginger root, vitamin C (1000mg) and D3 (3000iu) and am on Tamoxifen (for 2 years after a E positive breast cancer, a lumpectomy and radiotherapy). I had no idea the tumeric could interfere with the tamoxifen. Should I stop taking it? My lump was grade 2 I think. Also should I switch to Anastrozole now? I think I’m low risk of reoccurrence but I’m scared it might come back somewhere else. I’ve cut right back on alcohol, I exercise most days and am a healthy weight. I’m 57. Thank you so much. Ollie
Stop taking turmeric. You don’t need it n
Thank you for this very informative video. I've read the study published by the Early Breast Cancer Trialists' Collaborative Group (2022) in The Lancet showing that using an aromatase inhibitor instead of tamoxifen in premenopausal women receiving ovarian suppression reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence. I'm premenopausal and my oncologist suggested this instead of tamoxifen. However, he also suggested that I have an oophorectomy instead of the Zoladex injections. Is there any benefit to having an oophorectomy? Thank you very much!
I’ve been on zoladex and anastrozole for 8 months (so far so good, but I do have a healthy diet and exercise, virtually no alcohol). My oncologist didn’t want my ovaries removing for the health implications that the menopause brings - im 47. It’s certainly worth asking if zoladex isn’t enough x
Can these anastrozole be used on fibroids patients?
What's the name of medicine fr bones
I took Anastrozole for 2 + years and found my blood pressure rose dramatically during that period. GP advised me it was not a listed side effect in his reference book, yet there is a lot of info out there saying it can be. Would be interested to know your thoughts
I haven’t read the full list of side effects for a while I’m afraid. What does it say on the leaflet in the packet?
High BP happened to me too. Family doc said to get off the Anastazole asap and onc said to just take a break from it but won’t the high BP and headaches happen again if I go back on the med? Is Letrozole known for causing high BP?
Can you please address the use of vaginal estrogen for dryness? I have been on it for years, long before my BC diagnosis due to post menopausal dryness (I'm 63). Moisturizers did very little. I'm stage 1 (invasive dcis with 4-6 mm), grade 1. I was diagnosed in the beginning of 2023 and had a lumpectomy, radiation, and Letrozole. Im still using vaginal estrogen (vagifem) because i don’t know what else to do. I had a bad case of vaginal atrophy long before getting BC. I'm scared!
BC is scary. I also experience PMD. My gynecologist prescribed VE for dryness & irritation a few weeks before my BC diagnosis. A wee internal voice told me to delay starting the VE. Once my biopsies came back ER+ I called the gynecologist to ask if starting VE was a good idea. She told me not to use it. Everyone is different. Please check in with the doctor who prescribed VE and your oncologist to help make the best choice for you. Well wishes on your journey.
Just started Letrozol, if it gets bad I'll quit
When does the hot flashes start with anastrozole? Or any of the other effects? When should I expect them? I’ve been taking it for a week now and have zero side effects but I was reading that usually it takes weeks or months for side effects to happen.
Some people don’t have many side effects so you might not get them but generally within the first 2-4 weeks
So far I don’t have any real side effects except had some thinning in my hair but it seems to be growing back after I started using rosemary oil on my scalp. No hot flashes, no pain yet, etc…… been on it for 5 months now. I also cut out all sugar, processed foods and white flour from my diet. I exercise daily and take Vit K2-mk7 and D3/Calcium. Good luck to you. Hugs.❤
Are exercise like squats safe for people with total hystectomy?
Yes they are x
Dr. Liz O'Riordan can you answer this question???:
I have been searching and searching for the answer:
I was put on Letrozole. But I am post menopausal, hysterectomy, with a double mastectomy. The only thing I can find is "Letrozole prevents the breast cancer from coming back? Well I don't have breasts for it to come back. But my doctor is still pushing this. My question is does it stop all other cancers in the body? No one seems to know the answer. Why would I take something that will make my bones weaker if it only stops tumors from an area that isn't there? The side effects on "letrozole" are not good. So why would it be pushed on someone like myself if it only helps for breast cancer, when one doesn't have it.
Anyone with breast cancer can have cells that have escaped from the breast and are floating in the blood or lymph fast asleep. They can wake up in the future and start to grow. The aim of Letrozole is stop those cells being stimulated to grow if they wake up by blocking oestrogen
My surgeon told me you can still get BC in the tissues even if you have a mastectomy! Is the true @DrLiz?
Advice please I have had breast conserving surgery at the beginning of October and have only just seen my oncologist - She used the predict tool which said 1% difference in 10 years, if I take hormone therapy,
I have stage 1 grade 2 ER+ HER2- early invasive breast cancer with no lymphatic involvement margins clear tumour size 13m (23m including DCIS) I am 68 fit and the right weight for my height I take no tablets or have any other illnesses. My oncologist has recommended anastrozole and concentrated radiotherapy for 5 days because they have a backlog, the Drs strike and my hospital is moving it’s equipment? Also I won’t be getting my radiotherapy until February 24 I was diagnosed Sept 1st 2023 is this normal? So my question Is 1. At my age and my type of cancer with 1% benefit in 10 years why am I being put on Anastrozole? Also is it over treatment to give me concentrated radiotherapy? If I have to have it would it be better to have less over a longer period? I notice that other countries don’t give radiotherapy to over 70 year olds and that Australia are now reducing the age to 65/67 ? Sorry but the appointment was quite rushed and only thought of these questions at home. She did say it was my choice to decide if I wanted to take hormone therapy? Help please.
I can’t give personal medical advice. It’s standard to give RT after a lumpectomy and many units now do it in 5 days instead of 13. There are delays everywhere due to the shortage of units. It’s standard to offer hormone blockers like A to anyone with an ER+ cancer but for you the benefit is small
Thank you, so much, I intend emailing my oncologist with my queries as I will not get to see her again, just a phone call appointment mid January and I’m unsure whether the phone call will be from her or the radiotherapy dept? I am truly grateful for the surgery I have received, my surgeon has done an amazing job, but compared to friends experience from 10/15 years ago, the change in procedures more online dealings including agreements to surgery and treatments, phone call appointments and only physically seeing my surgeon once before the op, briefly on the day of the op and once afterwards for about 10/15 mins and my oncologist just once for the same time. I have felt like I have been set adrift ? I have found comfort and been reassured and educated from your many videos , thank you for taking time out from your life to help so many ❤ Ps I don’t know whether you would be interested in starting a tips page that your followers could contribute information to help others ? For me just something as simple as buying a 2 pack of bra extenders from M& S really helped after lumpectomy surgery, I bought them on a whim when purchasing 2 non wired post surgery bras and they were invaluable , I didn’t realise how much my band width would change (with swelling) after 10 weeks post surgery I’m still using them, but I am now almost ready to remove them and just use the hooks on the bra itself as the swelling has almost gone.
Only women go through menopause. Men cannot go through menopause. Should have said: given to men, or given to women who are post menopausal. Thanks for sharing good info with people going through difficult times.
Pick up a book. I have stage 4 invasive ductal carcinoma ER/PR+ HER2- BRCA2+ cancer. I'm on trelstar, which is a prostate medication, but I'm premenopausal so it's used to put my ovaries to sleep. I was on tamoxifen for just shy if a month and I went from daily to every other day to I was ready to unalive myself due to the bone and joint pain, the constant extreme mood swings, zero libido, insane headaches, dry as the desert, night sweats, hot flashes, extreme depression, hated life, felt off all the time, like I wasn't myself. I was switched to anastrozole and it was the same but less intense so I stopped taking it, I tried letrozole for 1 day and said f this I'm not going to feel like a raging psychopath they all do not agree with me so now we are going to try faslodex but I feel like it will be the same bs. These drugs really messed with my mental health
Interesting. I was told i would be on the AI for 10 years and I was stage 1A, 0.7 cm, none in lymph nodes, lumpectomy and radiation only. Very early stage. I’ve already switched from Letrozole to Anastrozole. Not sure I’m going to continue on them 🤷🏼♀️
the guidelines are fuzzy as new data is coming forward all the time
Is vaginal oestrogen also safe when you take aromatase inhibitors?
No my oncologist said don't use estrogen cream I use organic creams which help for dryness
👍
How long do the side effects of Letrozole last for? Does the fatigue and bone pain get better over the years?
Yes it does