Hormone inhibitor treatment decisions

Question

Sorry this is a long post.70 year old, between August 2024 to April 2025 diagnosed DCI, PR+, ER+, HR -, R partial mastectomy and reconstruction, radiation, Anastrazole(such awful, awful side effects ) 4 months then Exemestane 2 months. Completely crashed from side effects of Aromatase Inhibitors, had to stop multiple antidepressants in preparation for Tamoxifen, so crashed even further, quality of life so low only my family kept me here. Stopped Exemestane end of March couldn’t keep going. All this on top of Fibromyalgia, chronic pain, major long standing treatment resistant depression. Have been having positive ketamine pain management treatment and psychological support from onco-psychologist and with concerned calls from onco-endocrinologist and clearer mind realise have realised that i need to review my treatment decisions. I am still scared of restarting Exemestane but more afraid of Tamoxifen side effects. I’m due to see endocrinologist in 2 weeks to discuss what to do next but am appealing to you all to suggest some options or feedback so I go with as much information as possible.

be_sage · Answer

Thank you, it is hard to know what to do at times, surgery and radiation seemed&nbsp; more straightforward decisions but the hormone inhibitors so much harder. Tamoxifen is up for discussion at next appointment, so will see how it goes. 🤔

cranky_granny · Answer

be_sage​ Taking hormone blockers are a trying time. Finding one that suits each individual is a pain we all react in our own way. I hung in there with the anastrozole after the tamoxifen. The worst of the side effects have settled to tolerable most days I did muck about with the time of day I &nbsp;took it and settled on evening after dinner. I hope you find one that suits you.&nbsp;

be_sage · Answer

Thank you 😊

be_sage · Answer

Thank you for the advice, I will keep you posted. 😊

lily_rose2 · Answer

Sorry to hear you're having problems with treatment options. I am also 70 and have had a similar journey to yourself. Examestane crippled me and my Oncologist changed me to Tamoxifin. After 6 months I've had no side effects at all except stubborn weight gain. We each respond differently to medication, but I can confidently report that Tamoxifen is a much kinder treatment for me. Wishing you well in your decisions and future health journey.