femara and calcium supplements

[janetla]

I am taking femara after surgery for early breast  cancer.  I am supposed to take calcium supplements but dont like them and now there is a suggestion of increased risk of heart attack.  I have a good diet, take exercise and my bone density is normal.  I am 74.  Do I really need these supplements

[janetla]

Thanks for that, having read a bit more I find that the studies related to people taking calcium alone, i take it with vitamin d which was not included.  I do have quite a good diet and get quite a bit of calcium in that, i shall have a word with the dr next time i go and ask if i can reduce them, i find them terribly difficult to chew they make me balk

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hi there!
Femara is used in estrogen receptor positive breast cancers to prevent cancer recurrence. It decreases the amount of estrogen in the body. Estrogen protects bone strength and if estrogen levels fall then there are increased chances of osteoporosis which can result in fractures. So calcium supplements are prescribed along with femara.There are few studies that do suggest that calcium supplements increase the risk of heart attacks. Discuss it with your doctor. Any drug should be taken only if the advantages outweigh the potential risks involved in taking it. We all differ in our body requirements and needs so have a frank discussion with your treating physician if dietary supplementation of calcium will be really helpful. Hope it helps. Good luck.