How long do we stay on arimedex for? live in Uk and they want to stop it!

[Lani]

but all the data is not in so there don't seem to be formal recommendations yet.

[Amanda]

Thanks Ladies! I appreciate your comments which makes me think I should stay on arimedex longer! I have a check this month with my surgeon. I am going to ask to go back to the oncologist and see what they say. Here in the uk , you only see the surgeon and not the oncologist after 5 years. I think it does come down to cost! a packet cost the NHS £85! which lasts a month. Wonder why I cannot have Zometa? Its hard to think long term, I worry more about the cancer returning than osteporisis in old age. I read something on a web site about prognosis for breast cancer, a doctor said that most women will eventually succumb to their cancer! It makes you mad! Thanks again ladies! love Amanda

[ElaineM]

I don't think the 5 years is set in stone. Some people stay on it longer. Some stop it or change to another aromatase inhibitor like Femara before the 5 year mark.
Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflour, and cabbage can help keep the estrogen under control too. I hope you enjoy those veggies. There is a supplement called DIM that some believe can help to some extent, but it is not as strong as the aromatase inhibitors.