Anyone out there taking Femara or Letrozole??
#1
I've been on this anti-cancer medication for about 5 months and have started having mild hot flashes and some insomnia which are typical reactions. But, I've also started having a rapid heart rate and tingling in one leg. These are not common reactions to the drug. Thought I'd check in with the QB to find out what your experience has been. Thank you for any and all comments.
#4
Power Poster
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 17,826
Originally Posted by lisainmo
I think you should call your dr. and let them know :)
#7
Super Member
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Chula Vista CA
Posts: 7,401
Please call your doctor ASAP. I am not sure what cancer you had - but I had to take two different meds with the most side effect was increased appetite. A friend of mine had the same type of reactions you describe and the doctors have no idea until you tell them. She was taken off the medication and given something else. We were taking Arimidex. I had hot flashes but that was from the infusion chemo, so it was not at all related to the oral medication.
My friend was having such severe side effects she stopped taking the meds and then called her doctor. People often wait until the next office appointment, but doctor need to know. They are not clairvoyant, you need to call and talk with your doctor.
My friend was having such severe side effects she stopped taking the meds and then called her doctor. People often wait until the next office appointment, but doctor need to know. They are not clairvoyant, you need to call and talk with your doctor.
#8
Thank you so much for the quick and concerned responses. I am in touch with my doctors (oncologist, breast surgeon and cardiologist) and thus far have not been advised to change medications. You can be sure I will stay on top of this issue. I was just curious as to what others have experienced.
#9
Yes, I am and it's menopause all over again, again, again. This drug is an anti-estrogen to reduce recurrence risk in estrogen responsive cancer. Hot flashes and I've changed from a "lark" to an "owl". Haven't had the flutters but have just lately had finger tingles but I think that's from sleeping cramped. Also have to take calcium/vitamin d to counteract the tendency of femara/letrozole to cause osteoporosis. I've been on it for more than two years. I heat/sweat with any exertion so I don't do the amount of work/exercise I always enjoyed which is leading to weight gain. I feel I've never regained my previous energy level since treatment ended.
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