how long do you take aromatase inhibitors?
I had stage 1 breast cancer. 2 cm tumor, no lymph node involvement. Took tamixofin for 4 years and switched to femara. How long is femara recommended? Is there something to take following femara? The thought of not taking anything any longer is scary. Thank you.
Sharon, currently the guidleines are for taking an aromatase inhibitor for 5 years.That may very well change, as more data is collected; it's still such a new therapy, no one knows for sure what duration will give you the maximum benefit.
It's OK to be scared. But it's also OK to NOT have any further treatment. Millions of women are surviving breast cancer, having completed their 5 years or so of hormone therapy... And your cancer, thank goodness, is mild, so your chances of recurrence are small to being with.
Be aware that AIs can cause pretty severe bone loss; be sure to have a DEXA scan, if youhaven't already, then be ready to address bone-loss issues, if/when they occur. That in itself is a great reason to be glad when you get to the end of the 5 years! Along with the cost... 
Please read our post on "what to do when you're done with treatment." I think it'll help set your mind at ease. Good luck - PJH
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