Side Effects of Hormone Therapy?

[LynnH62]

What are the side effects of Hormone Therapy? Does everyone have to take it for 5 years? I am post-menopausal and my tumor was ER and PR positive.

Thanks,
Lynn

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Lynn:   Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors are the most common hormone therapies used to treat hormone sensitive breast cancers.  Common side effects  of both include hot flashes  and other menopause type symptoms. The aromatase inhibitors can also cause muscle aches, joint or bone pain, and some mild nausea.  They can also result in bone density loss.   Tamoxifen can cause a vaginal discharge and has been associated with an increase in the risk of uterine problems and blood clots.  In general,  however, these medications are pretty well tolerated.   Most women will be on hormonal therapy for a minimum of 5 years. You can read more about these and other drugs at www.chemocare.com

[Twocapes]

Lynn - everybody is different.  The treatment course now is five years.  I entered into a research study that at the end of my five years, I will be given either more Femara or a placebo to continue and I will be questioned and the information will help decide whether to have women continue more than five years or not.  When I was given the choice of going on hormone therapy, I was told it would greatly reduce my chance for a recurrence so I did not hesitate.  I am post-menopausal and was highly ER and PR positive.  As to side effects I think I am more achey, more bitchy, sort of always having PMS!!!  I started having hot flashes again too.  But, I keep thinking I'm increasing my chances for non-recurrence.
Sheryl

[LynnH62]

You mentioned that hormone therapy "greatly reduces" your chance of a recurrence. Is there a percentage? I suppose I am "highly" ER and PR positive too, as it said 3+

Lynn

[Rissa68]

A related discussion, False Hope? was started.