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For postmenopausal women with HR+ breast cancer
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What Is
Arimidex?

ARIMIDEX Side Effects

Like all medications, ARIMIDEX has potential side effects. Listed below are some of the most common side effects in the clinical trial you should be familiar with when taking or considering taking ARIMIDEX. These are not all possible side effects. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

These tips for managing side effects are only suggestions and are not meant to be tried without the knowledge of your doctor or health care provider. If you’re experiencing serious discomfort, contact your doctor immediately. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your medication routine.

Hot flashes are one of the most common side effects of hormonal treatment, and they have a lot to do with the hormonal changes within your body. These changes can be caused by menopause and medication, and may be influenced by lifestyle.

Talk to your doctor about certain medications that may reduce hot flashes. There may be an option that’s right for you.

Certain cancer treatments can change the way your body responds to food. You may, for example, experience symptoms of nausea and vomiting, or changes in taste, smell, or bowel habits, as a result of these treatments. While symptoms are usually temporary, you may need to adjust what, when, and how you eat to keep up your strength during treatment.

Let your doctor know if nausea/vomiting is interfering with your daily activities. He or she can discuss treatment options with you.

Some women taking hormonal treatment may experience joint pain. Sometimes this joint pain is the result of taking hormonal treatment, like aromatase inhibitors, and sometimes it can be a result of a preexisting joint condition.

Talk to your doctor to discuss treatment options.

Postmenopausal women in general may be at increased risk for bone loss (osteoporosis) due to decreasing levels of estrogen in the body. Certain hormonal treatments for breast cancer can increase this risk. The impact breast cancer can have on your bones depends on several factors.

Talk to your doctor to see if you need to have a BMD (bone mineral density) test to help determine if you are at risk for osteoporosis.

Treatment-related fatigue can be physically and mentally draining. Unlike normal tiredness—relieved by rest, exercise, or a good night’s sleep—fatigue brought on by cancer treatments can leave you feeling wiped out, even after getting plenty of rest. It may also make it hard to concentrate or think clearly. Talk to your doctor.

Some women who have had breast cancer that affected the lymph nodes may develop lymphedema. This is a swelling of the arm that is caused by an accumulation of lymph fluid. It sometimes occurs after surgery or radiation treatment for breast cancer. Some signs of lymphedema include increased thickness of your skin, a feeling of tightness, and decreased flexibility.

Call your doctor immediately if your arm or hand becomes red, warm, or swollen. You may have an infection that requires immediate treatment.

Next: ARIMIDEX Patient Direct