Please can you tell me if one of side effects is panic/anxiety attacks. I’ve been getting these recently and wonder if they are part of the menopause side effects. I’ve stopped taking them for now (approaching 4 weeks now) to see if it helps. The attacks have eased but still getting some. Thanks
Hi I had similar S/E’s I couldn’t sleep my tummy was flipping over and over it was horrible , I was prescribed a low dose of amitriptyline and changed over to Exemestane, I am much better on them, I don’t need the Amitriptyline now, speak to your oncologist or Breast Cancer Nurse. Good luck
Thank you. I’m waiting to hear from my GP who was writing to the hospital to check what else I can take.
Hi …I am on Letrozole since Mar23 and I have joint ache in my hands and spine (panicked as i thought my cancer had spread to spine but advised from the letrozole) when I wake up …wears off when I start moving. Felt a bit flat after xmas ( not like me) but saw another post re depression from letrozole …my consultant said could try something different if got really bad but my condition is stable so far so is working so will stay will letrozole for now. I can live with the side effects but if I want to stop taking letrozole I would discuss with Consultant …seems there are different forms of letrozole (mentioned in other posts) - not had panic/anxiety attacks …what has your consultant advised ? hope this is helpful …
Hi mel2,
Thank you for posting. Many people contact us asking about the side effects of letrozole and how to manage them. It is understandable that you have questions about whether the panic attacks and anxiety you have been experiencing are a side effect of your treatment. Everybody reacts differently to treatments, and side effects vary from person to person. Menopausal side effects are a common side effect of letrozole and anxiety is a common menopausal symptom.
Anxiety and panic attack can be caused by a range of different things.
As your symptoms have improved since you have stopped taking the letrozole it is possible that this is causing your side effects. As @Chico and @jennifert74 suggest it is important to talk to your breast care nurse or treatment team about these side effects. They can explore the cause, may suggest techniques or medication to help manage the panic attacks and discuss switching you to an alternative hormone treatment.
You may also find our information and our podcast on stress and anxiety after a diagnosis of breast cancer helpful.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK - prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Katy
Breast Care Nurse
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