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December 30, 2025
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A MyBCTeam Member

My oncologist told me to take the AI, when I said what about all the side effects he said my MD can prescribe medication for the side effects! HUH!!!

December 30, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

If you can live with the chance of recurrence, you might have your answer.
Also, if you decide to take Arimidex and it is not for you, you could try a different AI, or you can quit taking.
Wishing you well!

December 30, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

Hello Trudy. There are multiple side effects for aromatase inhibitors (AIs). Osteoporosis is a side effect of all 3 oral AIs along with bone pain and higher risk of bone fracture. Arimedex side effects also include, joint aches/pain, muscle aches/pains, liver issues, low red & white blood cell counts, hot flashes, insomnia, weight gain, high blood pressure, blood clots, and many more. Based on your age and risk of cancer returning you should speak with your doctor and ask what your risk of the cancer returning and your overall survival odds would be if you do or if you don't take an aromatase inhibitor and then make a decision based on that information. You could also ask your doctor if another AI, such as Letrozole or Aromasin, might be a better fit for you and your various pre-existing medical conditions. Good luck to you with whatever decision you make ❤️

December 30, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

What are the worst side effects, I have osteoporosis

December 30, 2025
MyBCTeam

Is hormone therapy like Arimidex worth taking at 80 years old with Stage 1, Grade 2 breast cancer and an Oncotype DX score of 18?

With a low Oncotype DX score of 18, your cancer has a lower risk of recurrence, which is encouraging. However, the decision about hormone therapy at 80 involves weighing potential benefits against Show Full Answer

Is hormone therapy like Arimidex worth taking at 80 years old with Stage 1, Grade 2 breast cancer and an Oncotype DX score of 18?

With a low Oncotype DX score of 18, your cancer has a lower risk of recurrence, which is encouraging. However, the decision about hormone therapy at 80 involves weighing potential benefits against side effects and quality of life considerations.

For hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, hormone therapy is typically recommended for 5-10 years after surgery to reduce recurrence risk. Even with a low Oncotype score, hormone therapy can provide additional protection, especially since Stage 1 breast cancer already has an excellent prognosis with nearly 100% five-year survival rates.

Important factors to discuss with your oncologist include:

* Your overall health and life expectancy
* Potential side effects of Arimidex (joint pain, bone density loss, fatigue)
* How these side effects might impact your daily activities and quality of life
* Whether the modest additional benefit outweighs potential downsides at your age

Some people find the side effects manageable, while others struggle. Your doctor can help you make a personalized decision based on your specific situation and priorities. There's no single right answer—it's about what makes sense for your individual circumstances.

December 30, 2025

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