What is Letrozole?
Letrozole reduces the levels of estrogen in women who are postmenopausal, which could hinder the development of certain kinds of breast tumors, which require estrogen to grow within the body.
Letrozole can be used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is typically prescribed to women who have taken Tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Soltamox) for five years.Letrozole is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this guideline for medication.
Side effects of Letrozole
See a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that are warning signs of an allergic response, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue,
Common adverse effects of letrozole could be:
- Flashes of hotness and warmth or redness on your chest or face;
- Headache, dizziness, weakness;
- Muscle pain or joint discomfort;
- Weight gain and swelling
- An increase in sweating increased sweating
- The blood has more cholesterol.
It's not a comprehensive listing of all negative results. Others could happen. Contact your doctor to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Letrozole should not be used when you are pregnant.
Before you Take this Drug
Letrozole is not a good option if you have an allergy to it.
Letrozole is only for use by women who cannot become pregnant. Letrozole can harm an unborn baby. Avoid using it if you are expecting. Make sure you are using birth control that is effective if you have not reached menopausal age. Use birth control for at least three weeks following your latest dose of letrozole. Inform your doctor if you suspect you are pregnant.
Inform your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- The liver condition (especially cirrhosis);
- Osteoporosis, osteopenia (low bone mineral density);
- Excessive cholesterol
- If you take tamoxifen as well.
It is not recommended to breastfeed during the time you take letrozole or for a minimum of 3 weeks following your last dose.
How to Take Letrozole?
Follow the directions on the prescription label and also read the medication guides or instruction sheets. Follow the medication precisely as directed.Letrozole can be taken either with or without meals.
You'll need regular medical tests, and your bone mineral density could also require a check.Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture.
Details on Dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Breast Cancer:
2.5 mg taken orally, once a day
The duration of treatment:
Extended adjuvant and adjuvant settings: The optimal duration is not known; stop therapy when there is any relapse.
Advanced disease: Wait until the progression of the tumor is apparent.
Uses:
Postmenopausal women who are treated as adjuvants and who have estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer
Extensive adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer for postmenopausal women who've had 5 years of treatment with adjuvant tamoxifen
First-line treatment of premenopausal and postmenopausal females with hormone receptor-positive or unidentified cancers that are locally advanced, or metastatic breast cancer, and second-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer that is advanced in postmenopausal women who have advanced disease following antiestrogen therapy
Usual Adult Dose for Breast Cancer—Adjuvant:
2.5 mg taken orally, once a day
The duration of treatment:
Extended adjuvant and adjuvant settings: The ideal duration is not known; stop treatment at the time of any relapse.
Advanced disease: Wait until the signs of tumor progression are evident.
Uses:
Postmenopausal women who are treated as adjuvants and are hormone receptor positive and have early breast cancer
Extensive adjuvant treatment for early breast cancer in postmenopausal females who have been treated for 5 years with TAMoxifen adjuvant therapy
First-line treatment for premenopausal and postmenopausal females with hormone receptor-positive or unidentified metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer. Second-line treatment for the advanced stage of breast cancer among postmenopausal women who have cancer progression after antiestrogen therapy
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
You should take the medication as quickly as you are able, but avoid your missed dose if you are nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at once.
What Happens If I Overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What Should be Avoided?
Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you understand the effects of letrozole on your body. Your reaction could be affected.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Other drugs can also affect letrozole, like prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor your current medications and any medications you begin or stop taking.
