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Suffer Post Chemotherapy Cognitive Impairment. Had Breast Cancer, Lumpectomies, Chemotherapy And Major Stress Due Radiation. Suggest?

Posted on Wed, 16 Oct 2013

Question: I had breast cancer, 3 lumpectomies, chemo with chemo brain and major stress due to that, then radiation, and now "post chemotherapy cognitive impairment". However, I had been beginning to improve. I was then prescribed Arimidex, and after taking it for two months I was almost ready to jump off a bridge because of the emotional effect the drug had on me. I just happened to see patient reviews on "Ask a Patient", immediately stopped taking Arimidex, and less than 5 days later, I'm beginning to feel like "me" again!! So, my question is... Is there any medication that is an alternative to Arimidex, and if not... what would be your best advice. I'd ask my medical oncologist, but we're not really on speaking terms at this point. Thanks!!!

Answered by Dr. Krishna Kiran Kannepalli (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
There are alternative hormonal drugs

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for the query.

I read all the reports that you have provided. There are alternative hormonal agents available with a different side effect profile for example, Letrozole and Exemestane. Exemestane may be associated with depression but Letrozole is a good alternative for you as it is not known to cause depression.

Tamoxifen could have been effective too, but if you were premenopausal. You can discuss about these medications with your doctor.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Krishna Kiran Kannepalli (2 hours later)

Thank you for your response. However, I just read about the side effects associated with these meds, also... and they don't sound any better.

Any ideas for something not as destructive to one's body and psyche?

Thanks!

Answered by Dr. Krishna Kiran Kannepalli (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Better to continue

Detailed Answer:
Hi! Thanks for the query. I can understand that the side effects are troubling you. But you have early breast cancer that has high chances of cure. Aromatase inhibitors are helpful in preventing recurrences in the same and opposite breast. They significantly reduce the risk of developing a second breast cancer. Therefore, they should be used for 5 years if there are no serious side effects. This is the ideal situation. A psychiatry consultation might help in overcoming some of the side effects.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E