I was went onto your forum and was horrified to see that the most resent postings are from 4 years ago. Which was when l was given first exemestane and then because of extreme joint pain moved to letrozole. I only took these for 8 weeks in total!!! I was advised by the oncologist that if l didn’t take them my cancer would return. In that short time l had developed bone Spurs on numerous bones in my hands and feet. Giving me inflammatory oesteoarthritus. This has now spread to further joints giving me extremely painful reduced mobility. My active life prior to cancer is a memory. As yet my cancer has not returned perhaps because l have subsequently had a total hysterectomy that has wiped out all my hormones but aged me dramatically.
When “they” advise you that you may experience joint pain with the medication you are not told that it has done irreparable damage that will affect you every day for the rest of your very painful life.
l don’t ever wave the women are being ignored flag (l can stick up for myself usually) But on this occasion it’s a disgraceful malpractice that has been brushed under the carpet because as women we don’t protest enough!!!
Hi Chrisfg53
I am sorry to hear that you have experienced a bad reaction to the medication, which has left you with bone spurs and osteoarthritis. That sounds very painful. I also have had a hysterectomy, and I fully understand how you feel it has aged you. Many of my friends who have had a hysterectomy do not understand, as they are able to take HRT, and have no idea what it is like when you cannot have it.
I was on letrozole for about a year, and did experience very painful joints, especially my knees, ankles and feet. I have swapped to anastrozole which I have found more manageable.
That is great news that you have remained cancer free. That is very encouraging news for others in the group.
Wishing you all the very best
