What are the side effects of letrozole after mastectomy?

Hi Nereida. I completely understand your concerns about this. But the side effects are somewhat different for each of us. For me, joint pain is my main complaint although it’s not every day. Sometimes it’s in my hips other days my ankles and knees are affected. Tylenol takes care of it for me. I feel tired also although my Dr thinks it’s more from the radiation that I completed mid June rather than the Letrozole. I think you should give it a try because it really is supposed to help keep cancer from returning. There are 2 more aromatase inhibitors if you find the Letrozole is too hard on you. I’ve researched for natural ways to attack this but didn’t find anything. I feel I have a good team of doctors and they tell me taking this drug is my best option for me so I’m going to do it. Good luck to you! 💕

Thank you Toni I will give it a try

Hi Nerida – I was also prescribed letrozole and, like you, I went back and forth on whether to take it. My biggest side effects have been joint pain and hot flashes. What’s helped me the most is staying active—especially walking and stretching—which really keeps my joints from stiffening up. Hope this helps.

Hi I was also prescribed letrozole I hesitate on taking it because I have already been through menopause and was afraid that I would go back through it again but I’m taking it now and the only thing I have seen different is my joint pain got worse and I’m losing more hair than normal praying for everyone 🙏🙏🙏🙏

Hi Robin Thank you for your comment. I about to start letrozole , Im already having hair lose due to stress and surgery. Any recommendations for hair loss ?

I don't think I am going to take it, I have been struggling also. This is the best part of my life. I am finally happy, content. Quality of life is important to me--yes, more important than quantity.

I too am considering not taking the AI’s. I’m 75, very active, yet have AFIb and osteopenia and don’t want to lose any quality of life.

I have had a lumpectomy, 5 targeted radiation and now 6 months in on Letrozole. My team at Mt. Sinai CCC in Miami Beach recommended lumpectomy because they felt a mastectomy was overkill and I’m really happy I followed their advice. The surgery was easy peasy as was the rad. Yes, Letrozole has lots of side effects but so far they are manageable and don’t affect my quality of life too much. I am 68 and also have cardiovascular disease which is stable, both diagnoses came last year after a totally healthy medical history so it’s been a little hard to digest. But we carry on . I can post side effects and how I manage if anyone is interested. I have my first scans since dx and treatment coming up in December. I’m anxious about that but I’m going to be brave and above all focus on my blessings . My best to all of you on your journey!

Letrozole is a commonly prescribed hormone therapy that can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence, though it's completely understandable to have concerns about potential side effects. Many community members have shared their experiences with letrozole, and while some do experience side effects like joint stiffness or hot flashes, others tolerate it well - everyone's experience is different. It's important to discuss any concerns about treatment options, including questions about alternatives, directly with your oncology team since they know your specific medical situation best and can help you weigh the benefits and risks.