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What Are Peoples Experiences With Letrozol And Solutions To The Bad Side Effects

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cincinnati, OH
July 23, 2023
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A MyBCTeam Member

Been on it for a couple of months and I haven't had any side effects. I feel like processed foods add to hot flashes and when avoided I haven't had any; honestly hot flashes didn't start until I had radiation. I hope the side effects are minimal.

July 25, 2023
A MyBCTeam Member

People have shared various experiences with letrozole and solutions to manage its side effects:

Common Side Effects and Experiences
1. Aches and Pains:
- Joint Pain: Nearly half of the participants in a clinical study reported joint pain.
- Improvement Over Time: Some members noticed significant leg and hip pain Show Full Answer

People have shared various experiences with letrozole and solutions to manage its side effects:

Common Side Effects and Experiences:
1. Aches and Pains:
- Joint Pain: Nearly half of the participants in a clinical study reported joint pain.
- Improvement Over Time: Some members noticed significant leg and hip pain initially, which improved after six months.

2. Sleep Problems:
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping, with some members sleeping only four to five hours a night.
- Fatigue: Tiredness sets in around 2 to 3 p.m., making the lack of sleep feel worse.

3. Thinning of Bones:
- Bone Density Loss: Letrozole can lead to bone thinning due to reduced estrogen levels.

4. Digestive Tract Issues:
- Constipation: Some members experienced hard and painful bowel movements, finding relief through dietary changes like eating fresh fruit.

5. Anxiety and Depression:
- Mental Health: Letrozole can cause feelings of sadness and anxiety.

Solutions and Coping Strategies:
1. Advocating for Yourself:
- Emphasize the importance of personal happiness and pleasure.

2. Switching Medications:
- Some members found relief by switching from letrozole to anastrozole, as different medications may have varying side effects.

3. Exercise and Stretching:
- Regular exercise and stretching can help manage side effects and improve overall well-being.

4. Dietary Adjustments:
- Incorporating fresh fruits like cantaloupe can help alleviate digestive issues.

5. Time and Adjustment:
- Giving the body time to adjust to the medication, as side effects may evolve and become less bothersome over time.

Important Notes:
- Individual Variability: Not everyone will experience the same side effects or to the same degree.
- Consult Healthcare Providers: Always discuss any concerns or side effects with your doctor, as they can provide personalized guidance and potential alternatives.

For more detailed experiences and support, consider joining a community like MyBCTeam, where people with breast cancer share their journeys and advice.

July 17, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

I take glucosamine and plant collagen.

July 24, 2023
A MyBCTeam Member

I was on letrozol 12 years ago and remember being miserable - mood swings, hot flashes and joint aches to name a few. I stopped taking them after 2 years - partly because my doctor retired. And here I am again! I will continue to take it this time. As for how to deal with it, 🤷‍♀️. We didn’t have these forums back then so I’m interested if anyone has ideas. Good luck on your journey and stay on the meds! Maybe ask if there’s another medication you could try?

July 23, 2023
A MyBCTeam Member

I was on it for a brief time. I eventually switched to exemestane (aromasyn). All of AI’s gave me side effects of insomnia, hot flashes, sore knee joints, vaginal dryness, dry eyes but aromasyn was the best tolerated overall.

July 23, 2023

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