Letrozole, worrying symptom

Hi Rosie25 

I was on Anastrozole (similar to letrozole) and yes I’ve also had memory problems. I’ve only just stopped taking it and haven’t noticed any improvements but it’s early days. I feel like I can’t multi task anymore and I have to use visual reminders as I forget really stupid things. Unfortunately I think it’s not an uncommon side effect. I hope that’s a bit comforting, to know you’re not the only one who’s had this. I’m sure it’s been mentioned in other posts too. 
But of course it goes without saying that if you feel it should be checked out, do get medical advice. Love and hugs, HFxx

Hi Rosie25

I was on Letrozole and then exemestane for 5 years. I experienced worse memory, but I am post menopausal and put this down to the anti-oestrogen drugs giving me another dose of menopausal symptoms. I didn't take it up with any medics as I was too concerned with the worsening effects on my osteo-arthritis. I have stopped taking this medication 4 months ago, but would not say my memory or, for that matter, the osteoarthritis, has improved.  

I feel your pain. In my opinion, the effects of these drugs are relentless and, because of the long-term nature, is in some ways worse than chemo, which I also had. I would pluck up the courage and speak to your consultant or GP  and ask for an investigation if you feel you need it, advice and support. 

I can't say I was ever depressed, but a couple of suggestions that might help are little are joining a group of people on similar treatment. The local Macmillan office, located at my treating hospital, ran a support group. They can also access some therapies for you. I had acupuncture. Being 2 years into treatment and not on chemo isn't a bar.  

I also recommend water aerobics. I found this really enabled me to move and participate in exercise. I began it about 2 years ago, and a knock-on effect was that it boosted my endorphins as I felt so much more energised and positive. It wasn't a magic panacea, but it definitely helped. I went 4-5 times a week. Cost is an issue. I did it at David Lloyd's as they had step access to the pool, but being retired, I got a mid-day membership, which helped a bit cost-wise. I also found cheaper classes in public pools, but step access was a problem for me there. About a year ago, I applied for attendance allowance and qualified, and this also helps with the cost. 

I recently had to stop aqua classes because of a tri-foot fusion, but I will be returning shortly. I am also having some NHS physiotherapy for my foot. If you can get hydro physiotherapy can be a big help for joint pains caused by the anti-estrogen drugs. It was what started me on the aqua exercises. 

A long-winded reply, but I hope it helps a little. I suspect you are younger than me, and if so, an early morning or evening aqua session seems to attract the younger set and is probably more lively. 

Good Luck with your journey, you will make it x

Thank you for your reply HappyFeet, it means a lot. The bit at the end saying don’t be afraid to cry I need to listen to as I fight the urge to cry in case I can’t stop xx

Thank you for your reply Rozalia. I will look into what’s available in my area. I’m post menopausal as well, I’m 72. I need to pull myself out of this depression somehow xx

Oh yeah my memory is shocking these days, never used to be so bad! Think it’s part of menopause which in this case this drug blocks estrogen so of course it’ll affect memory.

I’ve noticed memory issues, names, can’t recall what I was just going to do or thinking about, can’t find the right word.  I write things down now.  My memory used to be spot on, menopause ended that, but letrozole has Definately made it worse. 

Joint pain, yes I have that too.  Sometimes walking upstairs is like walking on daggers.  In the morning I walk down a stair at a time, takes ages.  

I guess we all live with this to some extent, better than recurrence.

maybe speak to your gp about your anxiety and depression, or maggies x

Yes, I was going to suggest Maggies. They really helped my sister. I started Letrozole 6 weeks ago. I'm already finding hot flashes and beginning to get weird pains but the main thing is the absolute fatigue every afternoon. Then I can't sleep.at night. It's a pain. 

My hot flashes went eventually, sleep is an issue for me too.  I did a sleep course thru nhs.  Sleepstation. Really helped me. 12.15 is my new bedtime.  

What do you do on a sleep course? 

I’ve been taking letrozole for just over 2 years but abemaciclib as well for 20 months and these drugs have various side effects in common. My memory and concentration has definitely been affected as well as my mood- I do feel quite low pretty often! I’m hoping there will be a lessening of symptoms after I stop the abemaciclib in 4 months time. I’ll start to take more notice of the different brands of letrozole I get in order to see if there’s one that’s better than others for me. 
All the best xxx