Alternatives to hormone meds.

I am 74 and have recently had a lumpectomy followed by 5 days radiotherapy.

Tumour was 11mm grade 2 with no lymph node involvement. Letrozole was prescribed.

I have taken 1 every other day but I feel nauseous and have loose bowels.

The more I read the less I want  the next 5 years of my life to be painful and full of extra drugs to

cope with high blood pressure and cholesterol and weak bones. I already have worrying blood pressure and

 cholesterol and steroid injections for painful osteoarthritis.  I have decided to look at natural food alternatives to lower hormones.

 Years ago there was no medicine and women survived 30 years plus. Come on oncologists look at other treatments .

 We deserve treatment that does not have so many negatives for living a normal life. I am fit and do a lot of exercise .

What natural alternatives have people tried? Are other countries treating breast cancer differently to us?

  • Hello NickiNike

    I'm sorry to hear that you're struggling with some side effects of the Letrozole that you were recently prescribed. We know that lots of women struggle with side effects and the ones you've mentioned are amongst the most common. 

    Some women find that they get on better with a different brand of their medication whilst others might decide that these kinds of medications are not for them and that they would prefer to move forward without them. Do discuss this with your breast care nurse or Consultant so that they are aware of your decision. They may be able to suggest some alternative options that you want to consider. 

    If you'd like to chat things through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hi there   I’m on Letrozole too but take Magnesium for the bone pan 150 mg morning and night , always check with your doctor though 

    I also take Calcium and vit D to protect against osteoporosis ( you have to take at a different time to Magnesium ) 

    I also take vit B12 as Letrozole makes your hair shed x 

  • Thanks but this makes me more determined to avoid letrazole. Tamoxifen May be better even if an older drug.