Letrozole - Yes or No?

Eek!  Can’t comment really and how I hate choices being left up to us! You could Dr Google but not sure if that will help.  All you can do is look at the pros and cons of taking it. I had mastectomy, chemo, RT and am now on Let for the next 8 yrs. in the year that I’ve been on Letrozole I’ve had aches and pains in limbs and joint stiffness, HOWEVER, not everyone has after effects of lots of drugs so don’t assume.  Also, they do suggest you persevere for at least 6 months before going back to oncology to ask for a change if you suffer.  I walk briskly every day for 30/40 mins and that shakes out the stiffness.  As to whether you should/should not take it…that’s the 64,000 dollar question! Great help, aren’t I??!

Thank so much for replying I really appreciate it. It's a tough one to decide x

Hi Molly Olive, I do not like having to make choices either.  I was IDC 8mm and grade 1 after ops.  Have also had 2 lumpectomies and have all clear margins now.  I was given Letrozole for 5 years, no choice really.  I have been on them a week now and find if I take them at night around 9pm I am ok. A few hot flushes and a bit of aching, but all bearable.  I was dreading taking them to be honest.  Find out on next Monday if I need radiotherapy.  Surgeon thinks I do not, radiologist not sure.  I hope it’s not choices.  I would rather they said. I need it, or I don’t.  I do not mind either way, but hope I can throw everything at it that I can to stop it coming back.  Wish you well with whatever choice you make.  Not everyone gets the side effects, you really do,not know until you try them.  Sending hugs x

Thank you so much x

I think I am thinking more towards the Letrozole. Obviously I don't want the cancer to return but know due to family history it is a possibility. I am thinking go with it for several months and if its awful I can also stop.  A few side effects is better than chancing cancer. 

Thank you for replying x

One consolation is that scientific progress is coming thick and fast so things that happened5yrs ago drug-wise, are not necessarily the same. Friend of mine with blood cancer was waiting on T cell cleansing (taking out certain cells, microwaving them and putting them back in!). They came up with a new drug which does this automatically so he’s not had to go through that. Still in trial but WOW! 

No, that’s why I take them.  I have a family history too.  Both parents had cancer, all though different ones.  Brother and sister both fighting it at the moment.  Really feel for my sister though, throat now breast all within a year of each other.  It’s a horrible disease.  I agree, a few side effects are bearable.  Xx