Hello. Can anyone help me with the effects of Arimidex & Exemestane please?

Question

I was taking Arimidex as a follow up treatment after breast cancer, and after 4-5 months started having real problems with my hands, particularly the right hand - swollen fingers, thumb locking and clicking, stiffness in fingers. Also general joint aches and pains and stiffness, which are quite disabling when trying to move after resting! I have now changed to Exemestane at the end of December, but as yet have had no improvement. In fact the pains and stiffness are still getting worse, although the swollen fingers arent so bad.

Answer 1

I take Arimidex and receive monthly Lupron injections. My hands and feet are always sore. Are you taking anything for Osteo?

I just try to exercise all I can and drink lots of water- it seems to help some.

I don't know anything about Exemestane. I use
www.breastcancer.org
as a resource frequently.
I hope it helps your symptoms improve... Good luck!

Answer 2

Arimidex and Exemestane are both the same type of medication (inhibitors of the enzyme aromatase). They are recommended for hormonal treatment of breast cancer for menopaused women.

However, if you seem to have bad side-effects with this type of medication, I suggest you speak to your doctor about another type of medication called anti-estrogen or SERM. The most well known is tamoxifen, but there are several others (I am not advertising for a pharma or anything). Some SERMs will also have a benefic effect on bone mass (preventing osteoporosis) and heart condition.

Answer 3

Possible side effects
Each person's reaction to any medication is different. Most people have very few side effects with Arimidex, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this factsheet will not affect everyone and may be different if you are taking more than one drug.
We have outlined the most common side effects. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects that are not listed in this information, please discuss them with your doctor or nurse.
You will see your doctor regularly while you have this treatment so that they can monitor the effects. This information should help you to discuss any queries about your treatment and its side effects with your doctor or nurse, as they are in the best position to help and advise you.
Some people may have the following side effects to varying degrees:
Hot flushes and sweats These are usually mild and may wear off after a period of time. Sometimes women find that avoiding or cutting down on tea, coffee, nicotine and alcohol can reduce sweats. Recent research suggests that progestogen or some anti-depressants may be helpful in controlling this side effect. Your doctor or nurse can discuss this with you. Some women find that complementary therapies help, and your GP may be able to give you details about getting these on the NHS. If you are having troublesome hot flushes, discuss these with your doctor.
Vaginal dryness This may occur while using Arimidex. Gels that can help to overcome the dryness are available. The gels can be bought from any chemist or can be prescribed by your doctor.
Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting and diarrhoea These side effects are rare. If they occur they can usually be effectively treated, so let your doctor know. Feeling sick can often be relieved by taking your tablet with food or at night. If you have diarrhoea it is important to drink plenty of fluids.
Hair thinning Some women notice that their hair becomes thinner while taking Arimidex. This is usually mild and the hair regrows at the end of treatment.
Headaches Some people have headaches whilst taking Arimidex but this is not common. It is important to drink plenty of fluids. Let your doctor know if you are getting headaches, as they can prescribe medication.
Skin rashes Rarely, Arimidex can cause skin rashes.
Vaginal bleeding Vaginal bleeding (usually in the first few weeks of treatment) has been reported. This is rare and has usually occurred after changing from other hormonal therapies to treatment with Arimidex. If the bleeding continues, tell your doctor or breast-care nurse.
Joint pains/muscular stiffness Some women have pain and stiffness in their joints while taking Arimidex. Let your doctor know if these effects are troublesome. It may be helpful to take mild painkillers.
Tiredness and lethargy Some people can have increased tiredness, especially at the start of treatment. It is important to get plenty of rest. If you are very sleepy you should take extra care when driving or operating machinery.
Risk of osteoporosis Women who have osteoporosis (weakened bones) or are at risk of it, should have their bone strength assessed before and during treatment with Arimidex. In some situations it may be necessary to start treatment to help prevent osteoporosis from developing.