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OnkoVodič – Rak Dojke Srbija
OnkoVodičRak Dojke Srbija
Step 8

Hormonal therapy (5–10 years)

Hormonal therapy in tablet form
If the tumor is hormone positive, long-term in tablet form is recommended. It usually lasts 5 years, and for some women up to 10. The therapy is obtained by prescription at the health center, with regular check-ups with the .
Why is it important?

Reduces the risk of disease recurrence and the occurrence of new cancer in the other breast. The effect is greater the longer and more consistently it is taken.

Which medications does it include?

Most commonly or (letrozole, anastrozole, exemestane), . The choice depends on menopausal status and treatment plan.

How long?

The standard is 5 years. With higher risk (e.g., involved lymph nodes), therapy may be extended to 10 years.

How is it prescribed?

Obtained by prescription at primary health care. Check-ups with the are 1–2 times a year, and basic tests check the liver, bones, and metabolism.

Are there side effects?
Possible hot flashes, sweating, joint pain, decreased bone density. It's important to contact your doctor if symptoms are pronounced – there are ways to alleviate them.
What after therapy ends?

After 5–10 years, therapy is usually discontinued. Regular with the and annual continue.

What if I forget a tablet?

If less than a few hours have passed – take it as soon as you remember. If it's already time for the next one, or close to it, skip the missed one. Don't double the dose! If it happens often, use a reminder or app.

Can I get pregnant during therapy?

Pregnancy is not recommended during / . If you are thinking about family planning, be sure to discuss with your before stopping therapy.

How to alleviate side effects?

Hot flashes – light clothing, avoiding alcohol/caffeine. Joint pain – physical activity, physical therapy. Bone density (osteopenia/) – calcium and vitamin D supplements, bone density monitoring.

When to urgently notify the doctor?

  • Unexplained chest pain or difficulty breathing.
  • Severe leg pain or swelling (possible blood clot).
  • Jaundice, dark urine (sign of liver damage).
  • Unbearable joint pain or bone fractures.

Why 5–10 years?

Research shows that prolonged use of hormonal therapy reduces the risk of disease recurrence. For women with higher risk (e.g., more involved lymph nodes), therapy is often extended to 10 years.

What does daily use look like?

Tablets are usually taken once daily, at the same time. Therapy becomes part of the routine, like taking vitamins. Check-ups serve to verify effectiveness and safety (liver, bones).

Practical tips

  • Use a pill box or app/alarm as a reminder.
  • Ask the doctor about additional examinations (, gynecological exams).
  • Talk openly about side effects – there are alternatives and supportive therapy.

What follows in the next step (Follow-up step)?

We will discuss the exact schedule of check-ups with the and annual as the basic radiological examination in the follow-up phase.