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Bazfam's avatar
Bazfam
Member
3 years ago

Side effects of Letrozole and Exmestane

Hi all, I started taking Exmestane in October for six weeks and started getting issues with my heart rate being very low 35bpm dizziness extreme fatigue etc.  Thank you, apple watch, for the tracking.  I went to a Cardiologist lots of tests checked my heart which was all ok but that this was an annoying side effect of low hormone but not damaging to my heart.  I am now on Letrozole and symptoms with my heart rate are worse. Next stop Tamoxifen.  Has anyone had this side effect and did it lesson over time. Thanks for the help.

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  • Natsubi's avatar
    Natsubi
    Member
    3 years ago
    All the best. I also had a similar problem but my blood pressure went up, started getting very bad headaches & had worsening heart palpitations. Oestrogen is protective of the heart so blocking it may cause problems. Tamoxifen is supposedly a more targeted drug and allows oestrogen to be still produced in the body. Hopefully you will have a better experience being on it and you can get of the beta blockers.
  • Bazfam's avatar
    Bazfam
    Member
    3 years ago
    Thank you, I have Oncologist appointment next week I will mention Anastrozole and see what he recommends. The Cardiologist did mention the beta blocker if I couldn't cope with the heart issues too so I will see if it lessons over time and if not, I will take it. Trying to avoid as little meds as possible!
  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    3 years ago
    So sorry to see you here, joining the group no-one ever thought they'd have to join!  Feel free to fill us in a bit more of your story ... if you put your 'general location' on your profile - we may have members nearby who may be able to meet up for a coffee & chat further down the line. xx

    I started on Letrozole back in mid 2018 & hated it - I only lasted 6 weeks on it, then swapped to Exemestane & lasted 6 months before changing to Anastrozole & I've been on it about 4 years now & going 'ok'!  Maybe mention that one to your Onc?  It could be worth a try.  Tamoxifen is the only one I haven't tried!

    Like you, I suddenly developed a heart 'issue' about 18 months ago - with the slowing down & 'KERTHUNK' thumping that really frightened me ..... I saw the cardiologist & there was no damage & am now just on half a beta blocker a day that keeps it under control.  It is annoying tho, that the meds we are put onto to help reduce out chance of recurrence, give us ANOTHER issue that needs another lot of meds!   grrrr.

    Take care & all the best xx