Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
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We hope you find the information helpful!
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LCIS - Lobular Carcinoma In Situ Questions about lobular carcinoma in situ. |
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| 5/31/2011 | With stage II, After lumpectomy and radiation, I've been taking tamoxifen for 2 1/2 years. But I haven't had a period since 1 1/2 years ago as I am now 53 years old. Should I be taking Arimidex? | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 5/31/2011 | Talk with your medical oncologist. You may need to have blood work drawn first to confirm you are indeed post menopausal (an FSH level). If so, there is the option to switch from Tamoxifen to Arimidex. According to th ATAC study presented years ago at the San Antonio Breast Symposium, post menopausal women switching to Arimidex after 2-3 years on Tamoxifen demonstrated increased survival. However, Arimidex can impact bone density/bone loss so for some post menopausl women, this could be an issue. A baseline bone density scan would be recommended as well. Best wishes! | ||
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