Sunday, May 27, 2012
Tuesday, February 02, 2010 sandy asks

Q: I understand there are new hormone therapy drugs following breast cancer.

I had a lumpectomy & soon to begin radiation treatments. My oncologist is now suggesting I try one of the newer hormonal type drugs on the market to prevent recurrence of the disease. Looking for input. Thank you.

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Answers (1)
Dorian Martin, Health Guide
2/ 4/10 10:51am

Hi, Sandy,

 

Can you share which drug it is? That way we can get you better feedback.

 

Hope you are feeling better!

 

Dorian

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2/ 4/10 8:45pm

The oncologist mentioned (3) newer medications that have been proven more effective than Tamoxifen, but there is so much to absorb that I can't remember the names. I do know Dr. told me following use of the (1) per daily medication I need to monitor bone density. This is overwhelming at times, since I've been relatively in good health most of my life. Any information or experiences you have to share will be appreciated. Thank you.

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Dorian Martin, Health Guide
2/ 5/10 9:42am

Hi, Sandy,

 

I am so sorry that you're having to go through this. I also have been relatively healthy all my life, so I can only imagine how overwhelming this health situation can be.

 

I'm not a medical doctor so I'll come at your question from the perspective of a patient and as someone who has helped a loved one battle a disease. First of all, I'd suggest that you get back in touch with the oncologist to get the names of the three medications that are being recommended. Then get in touch with your primary care physician and/or gynecologist to see what they know about these medications; this will help you, in effect, to get a second (and possibly third) opinion from your health care team that knows you and your situation. I would do this regularly since in my experience, doctors tend to work in isolation on their speciality and don't communiate with other doctors. I also would encourage you to start including a family member or friend in your doctor's visits so they can help you remember what happens and what's recommended. I've been that person for both of my parents and have found that having two sets of ears (and eyes) are imperative, especially during stressful visits. Also, take a notepad or a tape recorder to each visit so you can have all of the information recorded. This will enable you to use this information to do the research so that you can make informed decisions and begin to take back control of your own health.

 

Hang in there and keep us posted! And please take care!!

 

Dorian

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2/ 5/10 11:55am

Thank you. You have offered me several very good ideas to keep in mind. I'm hanging in there. Laughing

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By sandy— Last Modified: 12/26/10, First Published: 02/02/10