Hi PatsyN - I've been taking Arimidex for seven years and the side effects have been unpleasant. (I've given a description in previous posts). Should you have unwelcome side effects don't hesitate to ask for the patches again. I tried these a few years ago but after a few days of alarming 'tripping out' (as the hippies called it) my doctor advised me to stop using them. I now rely on Panadol, coffee with friends and knitting for pain management. This discussion list is 'the best' and I thank BCNA for establishing a venue for sharing and discussion.