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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.

I'm 81 and have been taking Letrozole for 4 years. If I were to ask if I could stop or take a break would that be risky for me?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
London, UK

I had a bi-lateral mastectomy (my choice, for symmetry) and apart from chronic post-opertive breast pain, I feel stiff and old. I was told to take Letrozole for 5 years but don't know how much protection it actually give me. I'd love it if my remaining years could be more comfortable.

April 20
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A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member

Most women on AI’s take a one month vacation from it or your doctor will suggest that.

The fact that you have done 4 years without a break means that you could take a 1. month break with your Dr’s permission and then decide what to do next.
I agree with @A MyBCTeam Member that you could take a lower dose of Letrozole or switch to another AI. That could be a lower dose also.
Or you could decide to stop taking your AI because of age and quality of life.

This is a decision that only you and you Dr. can decide.

April 20 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

Great advice!

April 20
A MyBCTeam Member

Definitely ask your team, they may consider a lower dose, and perhaps that could make a difference with the side effects while still providing risk reduction.Worth asking! Good luck, Hugs!

April 20
MyBCTeam

Would stopping letrozole after 4 years be risky for you?

This is a conversation you absolutely need to have with your oncologist. They can assess your individual risk factors, including your original cancer stage, hormone receptor status, and overall health at 81.

Letrozole works by limiting estrogen in your body, which Show Full Answer

Would stopping letrozole after 4 years be risky for you?

This is a conversation you absolutely need to have with your oncologist. They can assess your individual risk factors, including your original cancer stage, hormone receptor status, and overall health at 81.

Letrozole works by limiting estrogen in your body, which helps prevent hormone receptor-positive breast cancer from returning. The standard recommendation is typically 5 years, but your doctor can help weigh the benefits of that final year against your quality of life concerns.

The stiffness and discomfort you're experiencing are common side effects. Joint and muscle pain affect many people taking letrozole, and it can make you feel older than you are. Your quality of life matters

At 81 and after 4 years of treatment, your comfort and quality of life are important considerations. Some MyBCTeam members have found relief by switching to a different aromatase inhibitor like anastrozole, which might cause fewer side effects for you.

Others have noticed that side effects improved after their body adjusted, though you've already been on it for 4 years. Daily exercise and stretching have helped some members manage the stiffness.

Your oncologist can discuss whether completing the full 5 years provides significant additional protection in your specific case, or whether stopping or switching medications might be reasonable options. They understand that living comfortably matters, especially as we age.

April 20

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