CommunitiesIn Treatment For Breast CancerExperiences with Anastrozole and Abemaciclib for Breast Cancer Treatment?

Experiences with Anastrozole and Abemaciclib for Breast Cancer Treatment?

MC

Community Member

2 years ago

I have ER+, HER2- , node positive, Invasive Lobular Carcinoma with high risk of return. I had a mastectomy 6 months ago. I have been taking anastrozole since February, and finished 5 weeks of radiation a month ago. I just started taking abemaciclib (Verzenio) this week. I am concerned about the side effects of that added to the side effects I am already experiencing from the anastrozole. Can anyone share your experiences with this combined treatment? How have you coped with the side effects?

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

This combination treatment can bring unique challenges, and it's completely understandable to feel concerned about managing side effects from both medications together. Many community members have found success with this treatment approach and have shared helpful strategies for coping with the adjustment period. Consider connecting with others who have navigated similar experiences - their practical tips for managing daily life during treatment could provide valuable insights as you find what works best for your situation.

3+ patients found this helpful

GD

Community Member

6 months ago

What are your side effects from anastrozole?

MC

Community Member

6 months ago

Hair loss, fatigue, joint pains, hot flashes.

GD

Community Member

6 months ago

Back in 2016, when I started on Anastrozole the first time, I had hair loss and joint pain. I think some of the hair loss is due to all the stress, surgery, and radiation your body has been through. Give it some time your hair may reverse in a couple of months. I take Ibrance and letrozole since my recurrence this January.. Fatigue was a big issue for a couple of months. I think that is common while your body heals from radiation and any remaining cancer. Make sure you tell your Dr at your next appointment. Joint pain is a problem for a lot of people. The best thing you can do for joint pain is get moving. I go to the gym 4 days a week and try to keep moving on my off days. It's hard, but my joints don't get sore and stiff. Hopefully, someone can talk a little more about Verienzo. Remember, your body has been through a lot, giving it some time to heal.

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MC

Community Member

6 months ago

Thank you for the kind words!

SU

Community Member

6 months ago

I have about 20% hair loss and thinning. I wake up feeling like I have rubber bands pulling my knees, don’t know how else to describe it. Luckily once I start walking it goes away, and once in a while during the day one of my feet feels “ achy”.

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MC

Community Member

6 months ago

Thank you, Susan. I have an achy foot, too. It hurts more since starting Verzenio, but I hadn't connected it.

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CA

Community Member

2 months ago

This combination treatment can bring unique challenges, and it's completely understandable to feel concerned about managing side effects from both medications together. Many community members have found success with this treatment approach and have shared helpful strategies for coping with the adjustment period. Consider connecting with others who have navigated similar experiences - their practical tips for managing daily life during treatment could provide valuable insights as you find what works best for your situation.

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