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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Lockport, NY
November 18, 2025
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A MyBCTeam Member

Hi, just over 3 years ago I started on letrozole. After almost 2 years of severe knee and hip joint pain, I switched to anastrozole. After a year of that with the same level of joint pain, I chose to go with tamoxifen. Exemestane is a steroidal. During the previous 2 AI treatments, I received cortisone injections which helped with the joint pain. However, my body eventually reacted to the steroids with a lymphedema flareup. Therefore, I decided not to try exemestane.

November 19, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

I made a chart with all the AIs and CDK inhibitors and their side effects so I could compare everything before I chose which meds to take. If you send me your email dress I can send you the chart. A lot of the side effects are the same between the AIs, but they all have their own different side effects too. I made my chart using drugs.com and all the side effects that they listed.

November 18, 2025
MyBCTeam

What are the side effect differences when switching from letrozole to exemestane?

Unfortunately, the available information doesn't include a direct comparison between letrozole and exemestane side effects. However, both medications are aromatase inhibitors used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and work similarly Show Full Answer

What are the side effect differences when switching from letrozole to exemestane?

Unfortunately, the available information doesn't include a direct comparison between letrozole and exemestane side effects. However, both medications are aromatase inhibitors used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and work similarly by lowering estrogen levels.

Common side effects shared by aromatase inhibitors like letrozole include:
* Hot flashes and night sweats
* Joint and muscle pain
* Bone thinning (osteoporosis)
* Fatigue and sleep problems
* Mood changes
* Vaginal dryness

Some MyBCTeam members have found that switching between different aromatase inhibitors helped reduce side effects, even though the medications are similar. As one member shared, their doctor suggested trying a different medication because "one of the meds might be easier for some people."

If you're considering switching from letrozole to exemestane due to side effects, it's worth discussing with your oncologist. They can help you understand what to expect and monitor how your body responds to the change. Some people find their bodies adjust over time, while others benefit from switching medications.

November 18, 2025

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