Letrozole

USES

This medication can be used for the purpose of treatment for women with polycystic ovary syndrome or anovulation.

This drug is mainly used to treat certain types of breast cancer (including hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer) in women after menopause.

IUPAC name: 4-[(4-cyanophenyl)-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)methyl]benzonitrile

Drug class: Aromatase inhibitors (Antiestrogen)

Brand name: Femara

Route of administration: Oral

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an Over The Counter Drug? NO

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Letrozole works by decreasing the level of estrogen which causes the body to release higher than the normal level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The increase in FSH hormone can result in the development of a mature follicle in the ovary and ovulation of the egg.

SIDE EFFECTS

Some common side effects that may be caused by this medication include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, hot flushes, unusual sweating, muscle/ joint/ bone pain, tiredness, heartburn, diarrhea, hair loss, and dizziness.

Some serious side effects that may be caused by this medication include trouble breathing, rash/ itching, depression, anxiety, blurred vision, swelling of arms/ legs, unusual bleeding and decreased density of your bone.

PRECAUTIONS

Before using this medication tell your doctor:

1. If you are allergic to letrozole or if you have any other allergies.
2. If you’re taking any other medication (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products).
3. If you have a medical history of high blood fats (cholesterol), bone problems ( including osteopenia, osteoporosis), blood clots, heart disease (including heart attack, heart failure, chest pain), high blood pressure, kidney and liver disease.
4. Limit alcohol consumption as it makes you more drowsy, loss of alertness occurs.
5. During pregnancy, this medication should be avoided as it may harm the unborn baby. This drug is mainly used in women after menopause. Birth control products containing estrogen should be avoided. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, consult the doctor.