Has anyone experienced low blood counts on anastrozole?

Hi, Nell, I have been on the same 2 meds since this January, but I have not heard about low counts being a side effect. It does appear that anastrazole may be causing your low counts based on what happens when you stop vs taking it again, so it might be a rare side effect. I see my oncologist next week and will ask about this and let you know what she says.

Thank you Nina! Let me know what you hear. I’m heading to get bloodwork this morning, praying they’ve rebounded a bit. I’m very anxious. I took a 2 week break from anastrozole. If they’re not back up, I’m heading to Boston to see a Hematologist.

Blood cell counts went up, but now some others are off on my metabolic panel are off! My alk phosphate went up 8 points in 2 weeks, I know anastrozole is metabolized through the liver so I’m waiting to hear from my doctor. I think these medications can really cause issues.

Hi, Nell, I saw my oncologist today and asked her about the low blood counts. She said she's never encountered anyone with this side effect before, but that individual cases can vary. It seems like anastrazole is causing your low counts. Maybe talk to your oncologist about an alternative to anastrazole? Hopefully, your doctors will be able to figure out why your alk phosphate went up.

I have this side effect from Anastrozole. I know it! My iron count is dangerously low! ferritin count is 3.3. I had an iron infusion last week and have another 1 scheduled tomorrow. I’ve never had an iron problem until now. I’m 71, and have been on Anastrozole for 28 months. My Oncologist said it was not related, but Google says it can be a contributing factor. I’ve stopped taking Anastrozole for now. Just realized you are the same person who answered my post this morning. I really think k there’s a connection. Maybe we’re just the lucky ones!

My iron went down ,ferritin was 4 so I had iv iron and it went up again. I've been on anastrozole or letrozole for 9 months. I've only had trouble with low iron one other time on my life,when I had fibroid. Mine could be from not eating enough . I've lost 35 pounds the past year because of being in pain decrease my appetite

It sounds frustrating to see those blood count changes, especially when the timing seems to match your medication breaks. Many community members have shared experiences with various side effects from hormone therapies, and blood count changes can sometimes occur with different treatments. Since your oncologist is considering a hematology referral, that sounds like a thorough approach to getting answers. Others here may have similar experiences to share, and it's completely understandable to feel concerned about these changes while wanting to stay on a treatment that's working well for you otherwise.