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Side effects of Letrozole/Exemestane

Pezza
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Hello, I have been taking Exemestane for 3 months after having a 6 week break from previously taking Letrozole for 15 months. I am not coping well with the side effects, namely low mood and  lower tolerance to people! I was hoping the Exemestane would be better but things are just the same. I don’t really have any other side effects apart from feeling about 90 when I get up after sitting for a while. I have actually stopped taking them for the last 5 days because I’m so fed up of the way I feel. I even asked the GP for mild antidepressants but after taking just 1 it made me feel awful; wiped out & like a zombie. I have booked another appointment to speak to the GP about this. I wondered if you could suggest anything? Thankyou. 
PS. I had breast cancer and a double mastectomy in November 2020. 

  • Hi Pezza

    Thanks for contacting Macmillan Cancer Support and welcome to the online community.

    I’m sorry to read that you have been having side effects from your hormone therapy.

    It’s not uncommon for people to struggle with the side effects of their hormone treatment.

    However, it is difficult for nurses on this platform to advise on any changes to your current medication.

    There may be ways to improve your symptoms or your cancer specialist may suggest that you change brands of the newer drug as this can help with side effects.

    Unfortunately, there’s no way of predicting whether this will make a difference but may be worth discussing if this may be an option for you.

    As side effects are putting you off taking your hormone therapy, it’s important to talk with your cancer specialist before making any decisions to stop completely.

    As your team have access to your records, they are best placed to offer you the correct advice.

    Equally, it’s important to let your treatment team know about all your concerns, both emotionally and physically. This is so they can give you the best possible support.

    I see from your profile that you have joined our online breast cancer group. Many people find the peer support of others in similar circumstances reassuring to have.

    As well as the above support, Breast Cancer Now have a ‘someone like me’ service where you have the support of someone who has also been through a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

    Maggie’s also offer some emotional advice and online courses that can help anyone affected with cancer.

    If you’d like to talk things through a little more, please don’t hesitate to contact our nurses on the support line. We are always happy to take the time to talk over any worries or concerns you are having. Sometimes talking to someone outside the loop can be helpful and make things that little bit easier.

    I hope this is helpful.

    Best wishes,

    Annemarie (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

     

    Our ref: AKR / RH

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