Letrozole - side effects- how long until they kick in

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Been on it for two weeks. Slightly tetchy (like menopausal crossness!) but wondering how long before other side effects kick in if they are going to?!

  • Yes- maybe there are certain lifestyle things that actually help the side effects. Wouldn’t it be nice to KNOW for sure what they are?? Rather than just guess work. My oncologist basically said exercise and healthy bmi……so that’s all I got for now!!

  • Ps I would love to see somewhere - -t the very least -  a list of all the things people with no side effects are doing/ not doing . I get that’s probably just anecdotal but better than the big nothing we currently get!!

  • Good afternoon all l hope you’re all feeling as well as expected l have previously wrote about my experiences with Letrozle l will finish my medication in 2026!

    l managed the pain in all my joints until lt become unbearable l was given appointments for physio my first on Wednesday l am hoping it will not be exercises- l exercise daily to help keep my joints supple the exercise helps and massages- only for a short time

    l was interested to know about infusions for the joints- is it helpful? I am

    not changing my Letrozle medication because l only have symptoms of the Painful joints and understanding most of the medication have side effects 

    l would appreciate any information on the 

    6 monthly infusions in the joints are they helpful?  Or is this another unnecessary medication? You’re thoughts welcome please thanks 

    best wishes to everyone 

    Dawn 27

  • My understanding is that the bisphosphantes (the 6 monthly infusions) are given to help strengthen the bones which the lack of estrogen has otherwise weakened. Also it very very slightly reduces risk of recurrence (nothing like as much as taking the letrozole) 

    it won’t specifically help any side effects 

    • I think my problem may be a little different as my bone density was checked before taking Letrozole. Unfortunately I had a low bone density score, so although the infusion doesn’t specifically help with medication symptoms, it does help to strengthen the bones. However I was told it could possibly help with bone pain! I will let you know as I didn’t have any pain before I had my first infusion five month ago, the onset of pain is more recent. Over the past couple of days I’ve taken high dose vitamin D, it could be a coincidence but my back pain has disappeared. I’m touching wood. 
  • Hi Rozalia

    are you having Zoladronic acid infusions as my oncologist wants me to start it but am a bit worried about side effects.

  • Good evening thank you all for your responses to the Letrozle medication …

    I will receive my first session of

    Physio tomorrow l am hoping it is 

    massages and not the exercises ,

    l find daily mild exercises help to keep my 

    joints supple The two calcium tablets l take daily do not help to ease the pain 

    I am lucky l don’t seem to have other symptoms except the painful joints 

    I will stay on the Letrozle because l feels l 

    know what to expect with the Letrozle 

    We all have our own issues what ever 

    works best for the individual is the safest 

    choice ,My B/C nurse is always my first contact if l need any information 

    she is always supportive and directs me to the  relevant services ..

    Best wishes to all

    Dawn 27

  • Hi Skylark 

    I am not on Zoladronic acid so can't comment. I am due a dexa bone scan (a check every 2 years to make sure the aromatase inhibitors aren't adversely affecting them) I am keeping my fingers crossed there are no problems. 

    xxx

  • I’m crossing my fingers for you too!! 

  • How well is Letrozole working for those here?  I just started a week ago - no side effects yet but I am wondering the same as some of you if the symptoms correlate with effectiveness?  Has anyone had scans and seen a difference?  Thank you so much for any replies I may get.