What's it like having hormone therapy plus HER2-targeted treatment?

Starting this combination treatment approach can feel overwhelming, but connecting with others who share similar experiences often provides valuable insight and emotional support. Many people find that having practical strategies for managing daily routines and understanding potential side effects ahead of time can make a significant difference in their treatment journey. Hopefully, community members who have navigated hormone therapy combined with HER2-targeted treatment will share their perspectives and tips that helped them along the way.

I completely agree that connecting with others who've been through this combination treatment can be so reassuring - you might also find it helpful to ask about any timeline expectations, since everyone's experience with how long it takes to settle into the routine can vary.

I'm in a similar situation and have been wondering about this exact combination treatment too! It really helps to know I'm not the only one trying to figure out what to expect with hormone therapy plus HER2-targeted treatment.

Bev T do you know what the treatment you will be receiving is? I’m on Abemaciclib & Letrozole

Anastrozole

Same mode of action as Letrozole- ie aromatase inhibitor and acts by reducing oestrogen one of the main female hormones. However it does bring risks with and acts as reverse HRT with all the menopausal symptoms and also osteoporosis. You will need IV infusions to strengthen and protect your bones but your oncologist will organise all this.

Try to get out in the fresh air every day for 30 mins to do light exercise. A low GI Mediterranean diet - lots of fresh fruit and veg, nuts and seeds, wild caught fish and grass fed meats. Small amounts of dairy. No added sugar and low salt, add herbs and spices for flavour. Drink filtered water and herbal teas for detox. You will find your body tolerates meds much better with foods that are natural and wholesome.

Avoid sugar and high carb foods and seed oils like the plague.

Thank you for the info on what to eat is very helpful. It's really hard to avoid sugar and carbs and salt! I have hot flashes and headaches from Anastrozole reducing production of estrogen and progesterone

I was diagnosed last February when 2 vertebrae dissolved. I am currently on Letrozole and Ibrance. I get monthly Zometa infusions for my bones. Ibrance causes my white cell count to drop but couldn’t take Verzinio. I take lots of supplements - Oil of Oregano, D3+K2, Magnesium Glycinate, Calcium, Kimchi. I get outside as much as possible. I usually feel good. My biggest problem is the pain in my back. I occasionally have the what ifs but we aren’t promised to live forever. God has a plan and I rely on my faith. Just take one day at a time - you are stronger than you think. God bless you- Merry Christmas.

I found the Keto diet has been what I needed. Keeping sugar intake very low and carbs under 50 grams. It's metabolic health. Studies have shown it destroys brain tumors. Eating the right types of foods and walking/exercising is the best way to keep cancer away

I hv same as you.will be considering a drug hormone therapy.Had 5 radiation treatments. Done in nov.will consider starting @ end of Jan.I had a small lumpectamy.I was told that it could come back.Hormone therapy is sort of a guarantee that it won 't.