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Letrozole and checking estrogen levels
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Aug 8, 2024 | Replies (93)Comment receiving replies
I’m considering stopping my meds. I took Anastrozole for 4 months after radiation was completed (Stage 1a ductal carcinoma in situ of lower inside quadrant of right breast). Anastrozole attacked my joints badly. My medical oncologist told me to take July off, which I did, then I started Letrozole in August. This one affects my sleep, my moods and my weight. It’s almost like being back in Peri-menopause. I cry over nothing some days. Overall I have not been myself since I’ve started the drug regimen. I am weighing the 2-4% “benefit” versus quality of life. Instead of celebrating being cancer free, I feel like I’m living with a cancer that hasn’t been cured.
I will be 69 yrs old in Dec, which is also the month I’ll be one-year post surgery (lumpectomy and 3 lymph nodes removed).
As always, this is my journey, so I don’t propose to know what is right for someone else. Bless all of you who are on your own journey as it is life-changing, nonetheless. 💕
Replies to "I’m considering stopping my meds. I took Anastrozole for 4 months after radiation was completed (Stage..."
I was diagnosed in April with the same only left breast. I’m also 69. Always healthy until now. My lumpectomy was 2 weeks ago with one sentinel node removed. I’m still confused about why she only removed one. It contained isolated cancer cells. Now the plan is to radiate my breast and the lower lymph nodes. My prescription for the Letrozole is ready at the pharmacy. I’m on the fence about putting this in my body. I’m not on any big pharma meds now or before. My Breast Oncologist says it’s better than cancer???
I’ve been researching on my own. I’ve learned so much reading this blog. Thank you for the information I wish you the best!
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Thank you for this post. This is almost exactly my story. I had a double mastectomy, with clean margins and clear lymph nodes in October 2021, and a low OncoDX score of 11. I will be 70 in December. You put it very well. "Instead of celebrating being cancer free, I feel like I'm living with a cancer that hasn't been cured." I had very severe side effects on Letrozole. That prompted me to do more research. I have some heart issues and my bone scan revealed osteopenia. I have pretty much decided to work on building up my immune system through diet and supplements, exercising more, controling my weight and using techniques to lessen stress. I am waiting for an appointment with a integrative oncologist. My medical oncologist is not happy with my decision and doesn't have any other support to offer, except yearly palpation of the mastectomy scar. I feel pretty much on my own to find support, but I'm working on changing my mindset to celebrating a win over cancer and feeling grateful for everyday and the love and support of my family and friends. It is indeed a life changing experience and a very personal one. I too, send my best to all on this journey.