I have been on it for 6.5 years

I was post-menopausal and was started on Arimidex (anastrozole).  I had some hot flashes initially, but they subsided.  Maybe some joint stiffness, but it is possible I would have had that anyway due to my age.  I would highly encourage a trial if this is strongly recommended, versus opting out after reading about side effects.  

For me, I want the most effective treatment to remain cancer free.  If I were a lower stage, I might approach this differently.