After Arimidex

[Gadowo]

I just stopped taking Arimidex after 10 years (stage 3A, ER positive, 5 positive nodes in 2003. Had Mastectomy/chemo/rads.)

Has anyone out there also stopped Arimidex after many years? What was your experience after stopping? The doctors don't seem to know what to expect after longterm Arimidex yet!

[zouzi]

You are welcome!
What you are feeling is not at all unusual...Completing treatment can be both stressful and exciting.We are relieved to finish treatment, but worry about cancer coming back.
The Survivorship Center provides excellent programs.As well as taking care of your health,they can also help you emotionally,to embrace your new life with optimism and vitality.
I am sure the  nurse practitioner will be able to address many questions you may have and take very good care of you.
Wishing you all the best and continuing good health! :)

[Gadowo]

Thanks for your input! I had mixed feelings about stopping my only treatment to prevent recurrences, but my achy joints were starting to impact my life more lately. I actually seem a little less achy already, and seem to sleep better, but not sure what was caused by Arimidex and my age (almost 67 now). Guess will see.

I have been switched to what is called "survivorship" at UCSF. I no longer  see the oncologist since I am "done with treatments". I will see a special nurse practitioner in that program annually, so I feel a little unsure....but hopefully moving forward!

[zouzi]

Hi,
I first started taking Arimidex for 3 years,then changed to Femara due to pain and aches in my bones and muscles.The side effects were much less aggravating with Femara,but it still caused fatigue,indigestion,muscle pain and weight gain.
Finally my Surgeon told me to discontinue the drug and I did. In total I was taking these drugs for 4 years.I had absolutely no bad withdrawal symptoms,but quite the contrary,I started to feel much better just a few weeks later.I felt like a new person again.
Of course I am extremely vigilant and continue to see my Breast Surgeon regularly, have yearly breast exams,mammograms and blood tests.So far,thank God everything is fine.
I think you should be very happy to have taken this drug for ten years.Usually 5 years is recommended to lessen the risk of BC recurrence.By adding five more years,I am sure you have obtained maximum protection .
Just keep vigilant if you notice anything unusual ,regularly see the doctor who is treating you and follow all his/her recommendations..
I wish you well and I hope that you will continue with NED (No evidence of disease) for a very long time to come...