Can Letrozole cause high blood sugar?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a question about my mother. She is 64 and just finished her prophylactic chemo for breast cancer. Now she has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but she has never had high blood sugar before. She is on Letrozole and goes for routine reviews, and the doctor mentioned that the high sugar levels could be from the medication. Is that possible?

And is this type 2 diabetes reversible? I am worried because this is all new for her, and we are not sure what to expect. It has been a lot for her to handle already with the cancer treatment, and now this added burden of managing diabetes is pretty stressful.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Letrozole, used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (a disease where malignant cells form in the breast tissues). It is the most common cancer in women. It has been associated with an increased risk of high blood sugar and type 2 diabetes. Stress, both physical and emotional, from cancer and its treatment can contribute to high blood sugar.

Whether type 2 diabetes is reversible depends on factors such as weight, diet, and genetics. Include lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular check-ups with her doctor to monitor her blood sugar levels more frequently. A balanced diet and regular physical activity will help. Get well soon. Feel free to follow up with any questions.

I hope this helps you.