those with severe joint and limb pain on femara,aromasin (?and arimidex?) - Page 2

Jean · 11-17-2006, 08:11 AM

Kim,
I do agree that the further out we go from chemo the less aches and pains.
But I will note that prior to chemo I was on Arimidex for one year and the
joint pain was rather strong. I continued to exercise (which I believe is
an important key in pain control) but even without chemo I was suffering.
Also take Cosamin/Chondroitin supplements but it did not ease up the pain.
The AI's do effect the body joints and muscle. I would say that anyone that has tried all the natural methods and foods and still experience strong pain should consider the Cymbalta.

Good Luck to all!
Jean

Chelee · 12-10-2006, 04:41 PM

This has been my complaint to my oncologist since I started Femara. The first month no problems...but half way through the second one major aches, pains, stiffness. I feel like I am 105 yrs old.

I told my onc that I am so misrable on Femara, I don't even know if its worth it? She told me to give it time and my body would adjust. It only gets worse...not better. I am certainly taking this article to show her.

Chelee

Jean · 12-10-2006, 05:25 PM

I think (don't know for sure) that Cymbalta would have any effect on hot flashes, since that is a hormonal reaction. But for me (I am now on Femara)
it has helped greatly with the joint and muscle pain. Prior to taking the
Cymbalta I would also say that the joint and muscle pain was greater for me while I was on Arimidex.

Jean

Susan Rankin · 12-10-2006, 06:23 PM

Hi,

I asked my oncologist to give me a prescription for Cymbalta as I had read it helped joint pain, musculoskeletal pain, neuropathy, etc. He gave me a prescription for 60 mg a day. I have been taking it for a month. I immediately noticed a huge difference in my joint and muscle pain. I am feeling so much better. I cannot believe the difference in the way I feel. I am not stiff in the mornings, joint pain has subsided, it really is amazing.

I started with Arimidex in May of 2005. I took it for a year and then switched to Femara hoping the joint and muscle pain would improve. The joint pain did not improve with Femara. I am now taking the Femara with the Cymbalta and feeling good.

I was taking Zoloft for an antidepressant but I weaned myself off of this drug when starting the Cymbalta (antidepressant). I have had great results with the Cymbalta as an antidepressant also.

I can't wait to tell my oncologist the difference it has made in my quality of life.

Susan

Marlys · 12-10-2006, 06:27 PM

I started Cymbalta 30mgm at bedtime a week ago and the results are dramatic. I am glad I read about it here.
Marlys