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Arimidex vs. Femara vs. Aromasin? Thoughts? What are the differences between the aromatase inhibitors?

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Are side effects the same? Do we need to just "put up with" the awful side effects? Is one easier than the other? I am young breast cancer survivor, so my doctor says my side effects may likely be worse.

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Topics (Tags):

Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femara) Exemestane (Aromasin) Non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors Steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors

Topics:

Anastrozole (Arimidex) X Letrozole (Femara) X Exemestane (Aromasin) X Non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors X Steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors X

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Answers (2)

JKJones (Pharmacist (Verified) ) - 04 / 12 / 2011

Unfortunately studies have not been done to directly compare the Aromatase Inhibitors. The side effects for these medications may be different from patient to patient.

Here are some of the differences between these medications:
- Differences in chemical structure.
- Aromasin is a steroidal compound.
- Femara and Arimidex are non-steroidal compounds.
- Aromasin is the newest aromatase inhibitor, therefore there is less scientific data about this medication.

Here are a couple of other articles on this subject:
http://www.breastcancer.org/news_research/ask_expert/2005_12/question_09.jsp
http://www.healthcentral.com/breast-cancer/c/78/17222/aromatase-faqs

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member8865 (Survivor (2 - 5 years)) - 01 / 11 / 2012

i had my 6 month check up in December and i told the oncologist i could no longer tolerate the bone pains I was having with Arimadex as well as the rest of the side effects difficulty sleeping, depression, hot flushes, night sweats/chills headaches weight gain etc etc. But the pain in every joint of my body was the worst she said I could try Femara but it would probably just be the same or maybe worse! but to give it a shot and if it didnt work out I could go back to the Arimadex, The pains have improved greatly, every thing else seems to be the same sleep is worse but I am a lot happier on Femara and who knows I havent been on it full month yet so other things could improve too :) fingers crossed joints permitting that is lol

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Latest Activity: 01 / 11 / 2012
Views: 2251
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