Femara

I took a brand of Letrozole which was the generic form most similar to Femara (which was Accord) after researching side effects. Yes Letrozole does give you side effects but it does work to control the oestrogen responsible for ‘helping’ the hormone receptive type of bc. The norm is for 5-10 years, most consultants advocate a minimum of 5. Sadly I got swapped to Tamoxifen 3 years in as I already had osteoporosis and they think it let me down as I had a recurrence around a year after I finished. Now on Exemestane and Abemaciclib.

hugs xxx

Thank you for that information. I did ask what my estrogen level was to decide next step...I was told I would have to go back to Dr's & request blood test. Find it amazing that it was not taken along with other bloods pre operation! 

Take care that's quite a lot of pain for you. 

Hi there, Interested in this post as I too, at 71, was given the choice as to whether to have radiotherapy or not. I was strongly advised though, that should I not opt for radiotherapy,to take Letrozole for a minimum of five years. (possibly seven). Out of interest which area opf the country are you in? (If you don't mind my asking) xx

I am in Cumbria, I felt I was not ur usual 71 Yr old I am on no meds + exercise weights & walk lots. I am very unsure about taking Femara have just got the tabs yesterday....so many awful things happening to your body, possibly needing other medication!!   Are you taking any Letrozole? Xx

Yes, I, like you, was at 71, on no medications and no medical history of note. Very fit and healthy. I started taking Letrozole 17 months ago. I was very uncertain at the outset, but touch wood, I have been lucky and have had no issues that I am aware of  (I say that with caution). I stick to one brand (Accord). These decisions are so difficult aren't they? Sending you love and best wishes. xx

Thank you for that  it's encouraging.  Sending love & best wishes back to you. xx

Hi, I've been on letrozole for 4 years now. The side effects for me are minimal. I have occasional joint pain, but usually when I either do too mich walking or I've been standing for too long. Most days I am fine. I occasionally get hot flushes, but this could be menopause related.  My cholesterol is high and that is a known side effect, but the GP is ok with the levels.

I usually get the Accord or Sun Pharma brands, both seem similar for me. Best wishes 

Thank you for that, it really helps. I am under the hospital for the first 3mth prescription. The Femara is expensive,  unsure if the Dr's will allow me to continue when I transfer back to them afte3mths with hospital.  To be honest I am terrified to start taking the tablets. Xx

I felt exactly the same. I kept putting them back in the drawer. Finally I decided on a date (it was June 19th 2024) and stuck to it. I waited for all sorts of things to happen, but as each week went by,and no side-effects materialised I settled into the routine. I check my blood pressure monthly and nothing has changed (still quite low). My cholesterol was 5.5 when I started. I did adjust my diet and at my blood check in July this year it had come down to 5.1. I did think it might be a good idea to have an annual blood check and I initiated that through my GP. I shall do the same next year. Dexa scan showed mild osteopeania and I have increased my dietry calcium, and although I was advised to take a daily Vitamin D supplement I was not advised to take calcium supplements following a calculation of my weekly dietry intake.My Dexa scan is in June next year, so I will see how things are then. Incidentally, while on my mission to track down Accord brand, I was offered Femara at one pharmacist. They actually had it in stock! I was tempted to try, but in the end decided to stick with Accord and not push my luck. Sorry for the long post, but hope it helps, Sending love. xx