Femara
Femara is in a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors; it prevents formation of
estrogen. Although estrogen is a hormone naturally produced by the body, it can stimulate
and maintain the growth of certain types of cancer. Femara slows or stops the growth of
cancer cells by decreasing the amount of estrogen produced.
Femara is used to treat:
- advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women with disease progression after
antiestrogen therapy
Side effects of Femara
Although side effects from Femara are not common, they can occur. Tell
your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- nausea
- vomiting
- muscle or bone pain
- fatigue
- headache
- dizziness
- muscle weakness
- swelling of the hands, feet, or lower legs
- loss of appetite
- constipation
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- hot flashes
- cough
If you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Femara,
call your doctor immediately:
- chest pain
- difficulty breathing
- rash
More detailed information aobut the side effects of Femara
Each person's reaction to any medication is unique. Most people have very few side
effects with Femara, while others may experience more. The side effects described here
will not affect everyone and may be different if you are having more than one drug.
We have outlined the most common side effects, so that you can be aware of them if they
occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely
unlikely to affect you.
If you do notice any effects which you think may be due to the drug, but which are not
listed, please discuss them with your doctor or nurse.
You will see your doctor regularly while you have this treatment so that they can
monitor the effects. This information should help you to discuss any queries about your
treatment and its side effects with your doctor or nurse, as they are in the best position
to help and advise you.
Some people may experience the following side effects to varying degrees:
Nausea (feelings of sickness), and vomiting. These are uncommon and
usually mild. Feelings of sickness can often be relieved by taking your tablet with food
or milk, or at night. Let your doctor know if any of these effects are troublesome as
medicines can usually be prescribed to control them.
Tiredness and headaches. These are not common, but some women may have
tiredness and headaches while taking Femara. It is important to get enough rest. Let your
doctor know if you are getting headaches as medication can be prescribed to help.
Muscular aches and joint pain. These are uncommon but if they occur
let your doctor know as medication may be prescribed to help.
Hot flushes. These are usually mild and may wear off after a period of
time and become less of a problem. Some people find it is helpful to cut down on tea,
coffee, nicotine and alcohol. Recent research suggests that progesterone or some
anti-depressants may be very helpful in controlling this side effect. Some women have
found complementary therapies helpful and your GP may be able to give you details about
obtaining these on the NHS.
Hair thinning. Some women notice that their hair thins while taking
Femara, although this is usually mild. CancerBACUP has a section on
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