Indications
- Letrozole is employed to treat specific types of breast cancer, particularly hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer, in postmenopausal women.
- It is also utilized to prevent the recurrence of cancer.
- Some breast cancers are stimulated by estrogen, a natural hormone. Letrozole reduces estrogen production in the body, contributing to the deceleration or reversal of the growth of these breast cancers.
Dosage and administration
- Review the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before initiating letrozole and with each refill. Direct any queries to your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take this medication orally, with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor, typically once daily.
- The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to the treatment.
- Consume the medication regularly at the same time each day for optimal benefits. Create a routine to help remember.
- Due to potential skin and lung absorption, pregnant women should avoid handling the medication or inhaling tablet dust (refer to Precautions section).
- Notify your doctor promptly if your condition worsens, such as the development of new breast lumps.
Side effects
- Possible side effects of letrozole may include hot flashes, hair loss, bone pain, tiredness, unusual sweating, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly if these persist or worsen.
- Your doctor prescribed this medication because they assessed that the benefits outweigh the risks. Many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects like persistent nausea/vomiting, bone fractures, joint/muscle/tendon pain or swelling, mental/mood changes (such as depression, anxiety), swelling of arms/legs, blurred vision, unusual tiredness, dark urine, or yellowing of eyes/skin.
- Letrozole and cancer may rarely lead to severe blood clot-related issues (e.g., heart attack or stroke). Seek immediate medical help if you encounter sudden shortness of breath, chest/jaw/left arm pain, confusion, coughing up blood, sudden dizziness/fainting, pain/swelling/warmth in the groin/calf, tingling/weakness/numbness in the arms/legs, trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body, vision changes, or sudden/severe headache.
- While a severe allergic reaction to this drug is rare, seek medical help if you observe symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat/neck), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This list does not encompass all possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to letrozole, anastrozole, or other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other issues; consult your pharmacist for more information.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history, particularly high blood fats (cholesterol), bone problems (such as osteopenia, osteoporosis), stroke or blood clots, heart disease (chest pain, heart attack, heart failure), high blood pressure, kidney problems, and liver problems.
- Letrozole may cause dizziness, fatigue, or rarely blurred vision. Alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or tasks requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely. Limit alcohol consumption. Discuss marijuana use with your doctor.
- Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- This medication must not be used during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. Letrozole is primarily used in women after menopause. If you recently experienced menopause, discuss reliable forms of birth control with your doctor while taking this medication and for 3 weeks after stopping treatment. Avoid birth control products containing estrogen. Notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
- It is unclear if this drug passes into breast milk. Due to potential risks to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during the use of this drug and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.