Letrozole and Tamixifen side effects

There is another thread but as its very busy it sometimes drops off the first few pages. Link is here 

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/breast-cancer-forum/f/questions-about-diagnosis-and-treatment/208210/oestrogen-reducing-medications#1692314

People have posted with effects. I can only comment as I'm on tamoxifen. I was quite worried but more about the swallowing of tablets as i struggle with this but touch wood, its been OK. At first, I got my full blown menopause symptoms so hot flushes, tiredness, etc. I'm now 14 months down the line, I have found a brand with not many side effects for me ( its Wockhardt). I do still struggle with swollen joints so ankles and knees ache, surprisingly my hips are ok as I have a dodgy one. Hands do ache and although not broken anything yet, I do drop things as my fingers sometimes don't grasp things well. Trick is not to pick up too much.

It does depend a lot on brand due to the fillers so when you get brand try it for the month and see what symptoms are like and if necessary change. Get you pharmacist on one side and see what they can do.

I hope you find a happy medium x

Hi Bee

i have been on both Tamoxifen (2 years) and then I was swapped to Letrozole. I preferred Tamoxifen. I could only tolerate Letrozole for a year then asked to go back onto Tamoxifen but it was suggested I go on Exemestane instead. I’ve been on that for 6 months now. It’s not great but not as bad side effects wise as Letrozole. In between swapping the meds I actually took a 6 week ‘holiday’ from the meds. It made no difference and all the side effects were the same even not taking it!

If you get a chance and you haven’t already, listen to a few podcasts by Dr Louise Newson on post breast cancer and menopause symptoms. I found it very interesting and empowering when I was unsure about swapping.

best wishes,

suziWonga

Thank you Tired Minion, I wasn’t aware that tamoxifen could cause joint aches so that’s something to consider. I will check out the other thread too and speak to BCN.

 Very best to you

Bee

Hi suziWonga, thank you for the information - I will find the podcast and will speak to BCN too.

I know if side effects are awful I can always go back to Letrozole 

very best wishes

Bee