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.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Hormonal Therapy Questions about Hormonal Therapy. |
2,543 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/30/2011 | Hi Lillie-I know that several studies are ongoing to determine whether it would be beneficial to take AI's longer than 5 years. My question-why would it not be helpful to do so (other than side effects). Is it because these types of hormonal therapies can become less effective over time? Why? I know this is the case with tamoxifen, but this works differently than the AI's. Thank you again! | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 12/31/2011 | Side effects for one, as you mentioned, and the question as to whether or not the drug works as well if taken longer. you know if you take antibiotics for a long long time that specific drug eventualy doesn't work anymore for you. your body becomes resistent to it. it isn't clear if the same thing happens with AIs or not. For tamoxifen it has been proven to not be of benefit if taken beyond 5 years and risky side effects increase after 5 years. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.