Comparing Anastrozole vs Ibrance

For Breast Cancer Hello, Strength and Love and all other readers - based on my experience, the horrific joint pain from Arimidex/Anastrozole is gone three weeks after you stop taking it. My doctor told me to quit the Anastrazole again for three weeks and then start on Tamoxifen, which has its own unsettling side effects. This is the price we pay for breast cancer, but we're still here. My best friend paid with her life in 2016 (RIP my beloved Deb). So, hang in there Ladies! You are not alone struggling with this med. May 2017 be a Happy HEALTHY New Year for us all! D

For Breast Cancer I began taking Anastrozole in November 2015 following breast cancer surgery and radiation. After one year, I began showing early signs of neuropathy. When questioned, my cancer specialist said he felt sure it was not due to the drug. A neurologist said the opposite. I was placed on gabapentin for the pain and tingling of the neuropathy symptoms. I also have been suffering from worsening back pain and recently had an MRI which shows degenerative disc disease. I also associate this with the anastrozole. I am discouraged about my quality of life declining since starting this drug. I wish my cancer specialist would have been more open about the side effects. I may have chosen a different path.

For Breast Cancer, Metastatic I am still in treatment, but my initial impression of Ibrance is positive. My doctor is extremely supportive of it's uses and anticipated outcomes. (I have a fantastic doctor) I've had ease of access, when I mention Ibrance to medical professionals and the like their response is positive according to what they're hearing. My side effects have been few and not severe. The only major reaction I experienced was during the course of undergoing radiation treatments and taking Ibrance & Femara in combination. I became neutropenic (sp?) w/mild diarrhea, weakness, dehydration and throat and esophagus challenges. My challenges were a bit overwhelming. The newness of Ibrance concerns me. Just hoping it does the job! Thank you.

For Breast Cancer, Metastatic The first time I tried this my tumor shrunk by half in 3 months. I had to stop due to the extreme side effects. Just restarted at a lower dose and there are still some wicked side effects. However with the results I've had I'll tough it out and keep hoping for the best.