Letrozole 5 mg

Detailed Description — Letrozole 5 mg

Letrozole 5 mg is an oral medication that belongs to the class of aromatase inhibitors. Aromatase is an enzyme responsible for converting androgens into estrogen in postmenopausal women. By inhibiting aromatase, letrozole significantly lowers estrogen levels in the body, which helps control the growth of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancers.

Letrozole is commonly prescribed for:

• Early-stage or advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women

• Adjuvant therapy following surgery to prevent cancer recurrence

• Neoadjuvant therapy to shrink tumors before surgery

• Fertility treatment in certain cases to stimulate ovulation

It is considered highly effective in hormone-dependent breast cancer because estrogen acts as a growth factor for these tumors.

How Letrozole Works

• Blocks the aromatase enzyme

• Reduces the conversion of androgens to estrogen

• Lowers circulating estrogen levels

• Slows or stops the growth of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells

Unlike tamoxifen, which blocks estrogen receptors, letrozole reduces estrogen production, making it suitable for postmenopausal women.

Uses of Letrozole 5 mg

• Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women

• Metastatic breast cancer where estrogen suppression is beneficial

• Fertility treatment to induce ovulation in women with ovulation disorders (off-label)

It is not used in premenopausal women unless combined with ovarian suppression.

Dosage & Administration

• Typical dose: 5 mg orally once daily

• Can be taken with or without food

• Swallow the tablet whole with water

• Continue therapy as prescribed, usually for 5 years in adjuvant treatment

Never stop or adjust the dose without consulting your oncologist, as interruption may affect treatment outcomes.

Benefits of Letrozole 5 mg

• Reduces estrogen levels effectively

• Controls tumor growth in ER-positive breast cancer

• Can be used as neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy

• Improves disease-free survival in postmenopausal women

• Convenient oral administration

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Hot flashes or sweating

• Fatigue or weakness

• Joint or muscle pain

• Nausea or vomiting

• Weight gain or loss

Serious side effects (rare):

• Bone density loss (osteoporosis)

• Increased cholesterol levels

• Liver enzyme abnormalities

• Severe allergic reactions

Bone health monitoring, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and regular blood tests may be recommended during long-term therapy.

Precautions & Warnings

• Not recommended for premenopausal women unless ovarian suppression is used

• Monitor bone density during long-term use

• Patients with liver impairment should be closely monitored

• Inform your doctor of any other medications, as letrozole can interact with certain drugs

Drug Interactions

Letrozole may interact with:

• Tamoxifen or other hormone therapies

• Certain antidepressants or antifungals

• Medications metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes

Always inform your doctor of all ongoing medications to avoid adverse interactions.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C in a dry place

• Keep tablets in original packaging

• Protect from moisture and light

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not use after the expiration date

External Reference

For reliable medical information about letrozole, visit:
🔗 https://www.drugs.com/letrozole.html

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Letrozole 5 mg used for?
It is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women and occasionally to stimulate ovulation.

2. How does letrozole work?
It inhibits the aromatase enzyme, reducing estrogen production and slowing the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors.

3. Can premenopausal women take letrozole?
Typically no, unless combined with ovarian suppression therapy.

4. How long does treatment last?
Adjuvant therapy usually lasts 5 years, but the duration depends on your doctor’s plan.

5. Does letrozole cause hot flashes?
Yes, hot flashes and night sweats are among the most common side effects.

6. How does it affect bones?
Long-term use may reduce bone density; calcium, vitamin D, and regular bone scans may be recommended.

7. Can I stop letrozole if I feel better?
No. Stopping early can increase the risk of cancer recurrence. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.