Famara (Letrozole) for five years in question

writertype · September 2015

I can understand the use of Famara if you are younger than 65 perhaps, but when you have had a double mastectomy and you're 75 years old, how much estrogen can be in there? I've been on it for 2 years and the side effects are now setting in big-time. I can hardly use my right hand because my fingers lock up and my wrist is so weak and hurts so badly, it's really tough. Other side effects are less obvious, but I have trouble sleeping, I'm depressed, etc. I'm thinking seriously of going off of it soon. I know my doctor won't be happy, but the thought of 3 more years of this is too much. Any similar experiences out there? God bless all of you for your courage and strength. J.

Moderators · September 2015

writertype, we can understand you feeling really down with these side effects. It sounds as though it is probably worth discussing these symptoms with your physician to decide whether you go off this the Femara, or treat the joint discomfort and depression. It is not uncommon what you are experiencing. Please keep us posted!

vlnrph · September 2015

Even without ovarian function post-menopause, our bodies use the enzyme called aromatase to manufacture estrogen, especially in fat cells. So there is still some around potentially feeding hormone positive cancer.

Two years is pretty good to have tolerated any of these meds in my opinion! Sometimes, people will do better on exemestane (originally on the market as Aromasin brand) if letrozole or anastrazole are causing too much trouble. The chemical structures are slightly different which you could almost guess by analyzing their generic names.

Be sure to tell your doctor how miserable you are and consider trying the other drug.

Famara (Letrozole) for five years in question

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