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I’m concerned about hormone blocking medication. Its side effects and bone destroying effects.

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bend, OR

This is my second go around with breast cancer in five years. I’ve refused chemo this around but will do radiation therapy. I took Letrozole for five years and watched my bones decline. This time the oncologist wants to put me on 2 hormone blocking drugs. I’m concerned about bone pain, joint pain and more. I’m 75 years old and want to enjoy what time I have left and scared that the cancer could return for a 3rd time. Any one else going through this dilemma?? Or words of wisdom. The… read more

December 1, 2025
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MyBCTeam

What are your concerns about hormone blocking medication's side effects and bone health after a second breast cancer diagnosis?

Your concerns are completely valid, especially after experiencing bone decline during your first five years on Letrozole. Facing a second diagnosis and weighing quality of life against recurrence Show Full Answer

What are your concerns about hormone blocking medication's side effects and bone health after a second breast cancer diagnosis?

Your concerns are completely valid, especially after experiencing bone decline during your first five years on Letrozole. Facing a second diagnosis and weighing quality of life against recurrence risk is one of the hardest decisions.

Hormone therapy side effects you may experience include:
* Bone and joint pain
* Continued bone density loss
* Hot flashes
* Fatigue
* Mood changes

The bone issue is particularly concerning because treatments that block estrogen can weaken bones and increase osteoporosis and fracture risk. Estrogen helps slow natural bone breakdown, so reducing it can trigger bone loss. Your doctor will likely want to monitor your bone density with DEXA scans if you take hormone therapy. While bone-strengthening drugs like bisphosphonates or denosumab can help prevent further bone loss, they do carry their own risks, including a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Many MyBCTeam members share your struggle. One member celebrated finishing five years of Letrozole, Lupron, and Zoladex, expressing relief at being "completely done" with treatment side effects.

At 75, your focus on quality of life is important. Have an honest conversation with your oncologist about:
* Your specific recurrence risk without hormone therapy
* Whether one hormone blocker might be sufficient instead of two
* Alternative strategies for monitoring and catching recurrence early
* Your priorities for remaining active and pain-free

This is deeply personal, and only you can decide what's right for your body and life.

December 1, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member

The AI actually gave you good advice from all angles.

You actually want to know how many have made a decision to change what treatment protocol you have been offered, for how long and how they are sound.

So, tomorrow post on question and answer and ask that question..

December 1, 2025

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