Femara & bone density
It has been a while since I posted. Just to update, I have just had a bone density test (my 3rd test). One pre femara which showed the bones of a young adult at 50+. The second test was done 18 month...
Forum Discussion
I had an appointment with my chemo oncologist this week after not seeing him for 4 years. The appointment was for him to make the call as to whether I should continue with Femara after my 5 years of hormone treatment ends in February. I had 1 year on Tamoxifen and 4 years on Femara.
The recommendation is that Tamoxifen is beneficial taken for 10 years now versus 5 years. A trial study has been completed on the benefits of taking Aromatase Inhibitors, of which Femara is one, for 10 years versus 5 years, but results will not be known for another 3 to 4 years.
In his opinion Aromatase Inhibitors are more effective than Tamoxifen, therefore shouldn't the benefit of 10 years on Femara be more beneficial than 5years.
There are two things he looks at when making the decision to continue with Femara. Firstly, the bone density results which need to be done every 2 years and secondly, a fasting cholesterol result. If both these test results are normal he highly recommends staying on Femara.
In my case, I am very fortunate that my cholesterol is a good level and my bone density test showed a favourable result. I am continuing to take Femara beyond 5 years but cholesterol and bone density will be monitored.
Jill xx