[jaykay]

Hi,

Everyone handles the anti-estrogens differently. I was on Tamoxifen for 4.5 years (was already menopausal) prior to the studies that recommended AI's vs tamox for post-menopausal women. HATED every second I was on tamoxifen but there was no alternative. Swelling and achy legs due to fluid retention, hot flashes and just a general feeling of yuck (for 4.5 years!). Ended up taking a baby aspirin every day at my primary care doc's recommendation - it did help with the leg pain a bit.

When my onc brought up the AI study and asked if I wanted to try Femara, I jumped at the chance. Was on Femara for 5 years and did experience the joint achiness. Was already diagnosed with osteopenia prior to starting Femara and it really didn't get visibly worse (I exercise regularly, which helps). Most noticeable side effect was a rise in my cholesteral which lowered almost immediately after I finished my 5 years.

The sad news is that after 10 years on anti-estrogens, I am back on Femara again due my "new" primary diagnosed about 1 year ago. Oh well - at least I know what to expect.

Laurel is right - the body produces estrogen even if there are no ovaries. We are lucky to have the anti-estrogen arsenal of drugs to choose from. And everyone is different in their reactions to the various drugs. I'd give the tamoxifen a shot rather than undergoing a hysterectomy at this time. After all, it is major surgery

Best
Janis