Palbociclib and Letrozole - after 5 and a half years, my wife is now experiencing brain fog and short term memory loss. What can we do to manage this?

Hello. My wife of 77 years has been taking these two drugs for 5.5 years. They have stopped the Cancer returning. Over the last 6/9 months she has developed ‘brain fog’ type symptoms and short term memory loss. Neither are age related. I have discovered that long term use of Lettozole can impair cognitive function and I was wondering if anyone else has experienced similar side effects and what if any action or steps were taken to help.

Thank you

  • Hi JimRo, 

    It's great that these two drugs have stopped the cancer from returning but I am so sorry to hear that your wife has now developed brain fog type symptoms and short term memory loss. I think it might be worth flagging this with her medical team and asking whether they think that these symptoms she is now experiencing might be related. Explain that you have read that the long term use of letrozole can impair cognitive function. They will also be in the best position to tell you what steps to take or how to alleviate these issues. 

    It might be helpful to talk things through with our cancer nurses and there is a free helpline you can ring on 0808 800 4040 - it is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    I hope that you will also hear from others on here who have experienced similar side effects and that they will be happy to share their Letrozole stories and experiences with you. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi Lucie, many thanks for your message. I will take up your suggestion to speak to one of the Cancer Nurses.

    Best wishes and keep up the good work.

    Jim

  • I’m not sure if my earlier reply was successful…I can’t see it !

    Anyway, thank you Lucie and I will speak to one of the Cancer Nurses.

    Best wishes and keep up the good work….

    Jim.