Letrozole: medicine used for treating breast cancer

1. About letrozole

Letrozole is a medicine used for treating breast cancer. It can also help prevent breast cancer coming back.

It is mainly prescribed for women who have been through the menopause and have a type of cancer called “hormone-dependent” breast cancer.

Most people who take letrozole will have had surgery, radiotherapy or sometimes chemotherapy to treat their breast cancer first.

Letrozole comes as tablets. It is available on prescription only.

Letrozole can sometimes also be used:

• to prevent breast cancer if you are high risk and have been through the menopause
• to treat breast cancer in men and younger women
• as a fertility treatment if you have polycystic ovary syndrome

2.

Key facts

• You usually take letrozole once a day – try to take it at the same time each day.
• Most people are given letrozole for 5 years, but some will take it for up to 10 years.
• Common side effects can be like menopause symptoms and include hot flushes, difficulty sleeping, tiredness and low mood.
• Side effects usually improve after a few months as your body gets used to the medicine.
• Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and bone density during your treatment.

3. Who can and cannot take letrozole

Letrozole can be taken by adults only (aged 18 years and over).

Letrozole is not suitable for some people. Tell your doctor before starting on this medicine if you:

• have had an allergic reaction to letrozole or any other medicines in the past
• still have periods
• are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding
• have serious kidney or liver disease
• have been told you have fragile or brittle bones (osteoporosis)

4.

How and when to take letrozole

Letrozole comes as 2.5mg tablets. The usual dose is 1 tablet, taken once a day.

Try to take your letrozole at the same time each day. You can choose a time that suits your everyday routine. This will make it easier to remember to take your medicine.

Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew it. You can take letrozole with or without food.

What if I forget to take it?

If you forget a dose take it as soon as you remember, unless your next dose is due in 2 or 3 hours. In this case skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice about other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

What if I take too much?

If you take too many letrozole tablets by accident, you may get symptoms like feeling sick, blurred vision or a fast heartbeat.

Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:

• you take too many tablets and feel unwell

5. Side effects of letrozole

Like all medicines, letrozole can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

These common side effects happen in more than 1 in 100 people.

Menopause symptoms usually improve during the first few months of taking letrozole.

Talk to your doctor or a pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away:

• hot flushes and sweating
• dry or itchy vagina, bleeding from your vagina
• difficulty sleeping
• feeling very tired
• feeling or being sick, loss of appetite
• mild aches in your muscles and bones
• numb or tingling hands
• changes to your skin, including a mild rash
• hair loss
• low mood or depression

Letrozole may also affect your blood pressure, cholesterol and bone density. Your doctor will monitor this carefully and can recommend additional treatment if needed.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 100 people.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if you have:

• sudden weakness or lose feeling in any part of your body, if your face drops on 1 side or you have difficulty speaking – these can be signs of a stroke
• very sudden and severe chest pain – this can be a sign of a heart attack

Urgent advice: Contact 111 now for advice if you have:

• swelling and tenderness or pain along a vein – these can be signs of a blood clot
• muscle weakness, pain or swelling in the joints or tendons in your ankle, calf or legs, shoulder or arms
• a high temperature or chills – these can be signs of an infection
• frequent mouth ulcers or frequent sore throat – these can be signs of problems with your white blood cells
• yellow skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow –
  this can be a sign of liver problems
• problems when you pee, including peeing more often or urgent need to pee – these can be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI)
• blurred vision

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to letrozole.

Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

These are not all the side effects of letrozole. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect to the UK safety scheme.

6. How to cope with side effects of letrozole

Menopause symptoms such as hot flushes, difficulty sleeping, tiredness and low mood usually improve during the first months of taking letrozole. However, if they’re severe or last longer than a few months, talk to your doctor or breast cancer nurse.

Information:

Find out more about treating symptoms of the menopause.

What to do about:

• hot flushes and sweating – try cutting down on spicy food, caffeine, smoking and alcohol. It may help to keep the room cool and use a fan. Try spraying your face with cool water, or sipping a cold drink.
• dry or itchy vagina, bleeding from your vagina – ask your doctor or breast cancer nurse to recommend a vaginal moisturiser for treating irritation or dryness. Vaginal bleeding usually happens in the first few weeks after starting letrozole. Talk to your doctor if it lasts longer than a few days. Also talk to your doctor if these symptoms first appear more than a few weeks after you start taking letrozole.
• difficulty sleeping – avoid caffeine (tea, coffee, cola and chocolate) in the afternoon and evening. Keep your bedroom dark and quiet, and try going to bed and getting up at a set time each day. Stop watching TV and using electronic devices like mobiles or tablets at least 1 hour before bedtime.
• feeling very tired – gentle exercise and eating healthily can help make you feel less tired. Try going to bed and getting up at a set time each day. Do not drive, ride a bike or operate machinery if you feel very tired while taking letrozole. Speak to your doctor if this problem does not gradually improve as your body gets used to the medicine.
• feeling or being sick, loss of appetite – it might help to take letrozole after you’ve eaten. Choose foods you normally enjoy but avoid rich or spicy food. Try eating smaller meals but more often. If you’re being sick, have small frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or get worse.
• mild aches in your muscles or bones – ask a pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the pain lasts more than a week ask your doctor for advice. If you have a sudden attack of pain in a joint ask a doctor for advice urgently.
• numb or tingling hands – stop taking the medicine and ask your doctor for advice
• changes to your skin, including a rash – it may help to take an antihistamine. You can buy these at a pharmacy without a prescription. Check with a pharmacist to see what is suitable for you.
• hair loss – some people find their hair gets thinner when they start taking letrozole. This is usually mild. Ask your breast cancer nurse for advice if this is bothering you.
• low mood or depression – it is difficult to know whether this is due to the medicine, dealing with menopausal symptoms or dealing with a diagnosis of cancer. Speak to your doctor or specialist nurse. They may recommend therapies, like cognitive therapy or mindfulness, or antidepressant medicines.

7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Letrozole is not recommended when pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because it can harm your baby.

Talk to your doctor urgently if there is any chance that you could be pregnant.

Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you’re:

• pregnant
• trying to get pregnant
• breastfeeding

8.

Cautions with other medicines

There are very few medicines that interfere with the way letrozole works in the body.

However, do not take any medicines like hormone replacement therapy that relieve menopausal symptoms. These may contain ingredients similar to the hormone oestrogen and could stop letrozole working as well as it should in treating your cancer.

Mixing letrozole with herbal remedies and supplements

Do not take any herbal remedies or supplements for menopausal symptoms while taking letrozole. These can stop letrozole working as well as it should.

There’s very little information about taking other herbal remedies and supplements together with letrozole.

Important

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you’re taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

9. Common questions

How does letrozole work?

Letrozole belongs to a group of medicines called aromatase inhibitors.

Aromatase inhibitor medicines are used to treat certain types of breast cancer, where the cancer cells need oestrogen (a hormone) in order to grow.

After the menopause your ovaries stop producing oestrogen. Instead your body makes oestrogen from an enzyme called aromatase.

Aromatase inhibitors reduce the amount of aromatase in your body and this in turn stops your body producing oestrogen. This helps prevent cancer cells growing, as they no longer have anything to feed on.

What are the benefits of taking letrozole?

Letrozole helps stop your breast cancer coming back. By taking this medicine for 5 years (or sometimes up to 10 years), you have a better chance of being alive 15 years after your breast cancer was first diagnosed.

Your specialist will be able to explain the benefits and risks of taking letrozole.

They can also calculate how well letrozole is likely to work for you. This is done by comparing your details with those of more than 20,000 other people who have had treatment for breast cancer.

The exact benefits and how well it’s likely to work for you depend on a combination of different things.

This varies for each person and includes factors like your age when the breast cancer was found, how it was found and whether you’ve had chemotherapy or not.

How long does it take to work?

Letrozole will immediately start to reduce the amount of oestrogen in your body.

However, it takes several weeks or months for the medicine to work fully.

During this time you’re likely to have menopause symptoms as your body gets used to having less oestrogen. These symptoms will gradually improve as your body adjusts to the medicine.

How long will I take it for

Most people who take letrozole will have had surgery, radiotherapy or sometimes chemotherapy to treat their breast cancer first.

In this case, surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy is the first (“primary”) treatment and letrozole is an additional (“adjuvant”) therapy. Adjuvant therapy helps stop the cancer coming back.

Most people will have adjuvant therapy for 5 years. However, sometimes your doctor will advise continuing it for longer. During this time you may be given letrozole only, or tamoxifen (a drug that can also be used to treat breast cancer) for a few years followed by letrozole for the remaining time.

Letrozole is sometimes used to treat cancer if you cannot have surgery, or to shrink the cancer before surgery if you cannot have chemotherapy. In this case your specialist will tell you how long to take the medicine for.

Is it safe to take for a long time?

Letrozole is generally safe to take long term, however, your specialist team will monitor your health carefully.

This is because letrozole reduces levels of oestrogen that your body needs for strong and healthy bones. If you take letrozole for a long time your bones can become weaker (osteoporosis) and more likely to break.

You will have bone density scans before you start taking letrozole, 1 or 2 years into treatment and again after you finish your treatment.

Your doctor may recommend a type of medicine called a bisphosphonate to help reduce bone damage. They can also give you advice on exercise and diet to help keep your bones strong.

Letrozole can also increase your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Your doctor will monitor these during your regular check-ups and recommend treatment as needed.

Can I stop taking it?

Important

Do not stop taking letrozole without talking to your doctor first.

If you want to stop taking it for any reason, your doctor will be able to discuss alternatives for treating your breast cancer or preventing it coming back.

Sometimes people are given a short break from letrozole. This can help if you are getting side effects such as joint pain. However, only take a break from your medicine if you have discussed it with your specialist first and they agree to it.

Are there other medicines like letrozole?

Medicines such as tamoxifen, anastrazole and exemestane work in a similar way to letrozole. These medicines lower your oestrogen levels and can cause similar side effects.

However, medicines affect people in different ways. If you are bothered by side effects from taking letrozole, talk to your doctor. They may want to try you on one of these other medicines instead.

Can I drink alcohol with it?

There is no evidence that drinking alcohol causes any problems when taking letrozole.

Some people taking letrozole may get hot flushes or redness when they drink alcohol. In this case, avoiding alcohol may help.

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?

Most people can eat and drink normally when taking letrozole. Although some people may get hot flushes or redness when they drink alcohol.

Some people find letrozole affects their appetite.

If you lose your appetite, try to make sure you have a balanced diet by eating smaller meals and more often.

If it makes you feel hungrier and you’re putting on too much weight, ask your doctor or specialist nurse to refer you to a dietitian.

Will it affect my contraception or fertility?

Letrozole is generally only given to you if you have gone through the menopause.

However, some people find they start having periods again after taking letrozole. If this happens to you, it’s important to use reliable contraception. Talk to your doctor if your periods start again, or if there is any chance that you are pregnant.

Letrozole is not recommended during pregnancy.

Can I drive or ride a bike?

Some people feel extremely tired when taking letrozole.

If you feel tired or dizzy, or if you get blurred vision, do not drive, cycle or operate machinery until you feel OK again.

What Foods To Eat and Avoid While Taking Letrozole (Femara)

Article Contents

• What is Letrozole (Femara)?
• How does Letrozole work?
• Side effects and risks of taking letrozole
• Foods to avoid while taking Letrozole 
• Foods to eat while taking Letrozole
• Other things to avoid while taking Letrozole
• Should Letrozole be taken with food?
• What is the best time to take Letrozole?
• How to reduce the side effects of Letrozole
• Natural aromatase inhibitors
• Conclusion
• Source

Breast cancer is estimated to be the most prevalent type of cancer, impacting millions of women worldwide each year.  

Breast cancer treatment has come a long way in recent decades, which fortunately has improved the prognosis and survivability of breast cancer.

Letrozole is one of many medications used to treat breast cancer. 

While it’s primarily intended to treat breast cancer, letrozole can be used for other reasons as well.

If you’ve been prescribed letrozole, you might wonder if there are any specific foods you should eat or avoid while taking it. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Letrozole (Femara)?

Letrozole is a medication in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors. The common brand name of letrozole is Femara.

The Food and Drug Administration approved Letrozole in 1998. Per the FDA, letrozole is “indicated for first-line treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive or unknown, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.”

Letrozole might be used to help shrink breast cancer before surgically removing the tumor or before starting additional therapy like chemotherapy.

Letrozole comes in 2.5-milligram tablets, and the dosing schedule will depend on its use. The typical dosage of letrozole is one 2.5 milligram tablet daily for breast cancer. If it’s used for ovulation induction (more on that soon), the dose is usually 2.5-7.5 milligrams daily.

Letrozole works to decrease the amount of estrogen your body produces. Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone and is primarily produced by the female ovaries. The three primary types of estrogen in the female body are estrone, estradiol, and estriol. 

Aromatase is an enzyme that changes non-estrogen sex hormones like testosterone into estrogen, so aromatase inhibitors block this process from occurring, thereby reducing estrogen production.

How does Letrozole work?

Letrozole is commonly prescribed to treat conditions impacted by estrogen levels, such as certain types of breast cancer. Letrozole is typically prescribed to women who have undergone menopause and who also have a specific type of “hormone-dependent” breast cancer.

Estrogen plays a large role in breast cancer. Around 75% of breast cancers are estrogen receptor-positive, meaning the hormone estrogen feeds them. 

Medications like letrozole can help eliminate estrogen production, helping to slow the growth and metastasis of certain types of breast cancers.

If you don’t have estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer, letrozole won’t be effective in treating your breast cancer.  Letrozole might be used to help prevent breast cancer in certain high-risk post-menopausal women.

Letrozole is also used as a fertility treatment for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal imbalance that can disrupt the normal ovulation pattern. 

Many women with PCOS have estrogen dominance, which can block the production of important hormones necessary for ovulation. Letrozole helps reduce estrogen levels to promote hormones that allow ovulation to occur.

Letrozole might also be used in combination with other fertility medications during a cycle of in-vitro fertilization (IVF), an infertility treatment used to attain pregnancy.

Side effects and risks of taking letrozole

There are potential side effects and risks of taking letrozole. Some of the most common side effects of taking letrozole have to do with reduced estrogen levels and include:

• Back pain
• Bone/joint pain
• Hot flashes (sudden sweating and feeling of warmth)
• Muscle pain

Other side effects that might occur less often include:

• Taste changes
• Hair thinning
• Dry skin
• Weight gain
• Increased appetite
• Mood changes
• Skin or eye redness

There may be an increased risk of osteoporosis from taking letrozole. Estrogen plays a role in bone density. 

Low estradiol levels are associated with a 2.5-fold increased risk of bone fractures in older women, independent of their age or weight.

Long-term use of letrozole may negatively impact your bone density, which increases your risk of fractures.

Foods to avoid while taking Letrozole 

Some foods and supplements may tend to raise estrogen levels. Eating large amounts of these types of foods might counteract the action of letrozole and reduce its effectiveness.

In general, though, there aren’t any specific foods to avoid while taking letrozole, unless otherwise indicated by your healthcare provider.

Some foods contain phytoestrogens, which are compounds from plant-based foods that resemble estrogen. 

The four main types of phytoestrogens are isoflavones, stilbene, coumestan, and lignan. However, some of these phytoestrogens work to reduce estrogen levels and may be beneficial.

For instance, the use of isoflavones in adolescence is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. Studies conclude that the effect of phytoestrogens on hormone levels (like estrogen) is inconclusive and dependent on the stage of life and specific health conditions.

Potential foods to avoid if you’re taking letrozole for PCOS

If you’re taking letrozole to induce ovulation for PCOS, you might have insulin resistance. Improving insulin resistance can promote more stable hormone levels and might help you manage your PCOS without medications.

To help improve insulin resistance, consider reducing your intake of refined carbohydrates, including those with added sugars. 

Some examples of refined carbohydrates to avoid include:

• Sweets and desserts (cake, ice cream, muffins, etc.)
• Bread products made with refined/enriched grains (white bread, white bagels, white pasta, etc.)
• White rice
• Foods with added sugar (flavored yogurt, cold cereal, certain nutrition bars)
• Sugary drinks (soda, sweetened coffee and tea, energy drinks, etc.)

Potential foods to avoid if you’ve been told to reduce your intake of phytoestrogens

While the connection between dietary phytoestrogens and estrogen levels can vary (some may lower estrogen), here are the most common phytoestrogens to be aware of if your healthcare provider wants you to avoid phytoestrogens:

• Soybeans
• Kidney beans
• Peas/lentils
• Flaxseed
• Sunflower seeds
• Peanuts
• Wheat bran
• Barley

Potential foods to avoid if you’re taking letrozole long-term

Taking letrozole long-term can result in reduced bone density. To help prevent further bone loss, consider eating fewer high-sodium foods. 

High-sodium foods are generally more processed and contain much more sodium than you’d typically add to your food in the form of table salt.

A high-sodium diet can cause your body to lose calcium and promote unwanted bone loss. 

Avoid high-sodium, processed foods like:

• Deli and cured meats
• Salty snacks (chips, pretzels, etc.)
• Quick-bread mixes
• Canned soups
• Frozen entrees
• Fast food like pizza, salted French fries, etc.

You may also want to limit beans and legumes if you’re at risk of osteoporosis because the phytates in beans and legumes can reduce calcium absorption. To reduce the phytate content of legumes, soak them in water for several hours before cooking them in fresh water.

Foods to eat while taking Letrozole

Eating a whole food, primarily plant-based diet can help support your health while taking letrozole. If you have breast cancer (the most common reason letrozole is prescribed), it’s important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits both during and after cancer treatment.

Eating Mediterranean-style meals and snacks might help you reduce your future cancer risk. The nutrient- and antioxidant-rich Mediterranean diet can help reduce inflammation and cancer incidence. 

If you’re going to have chemotherapy after taking letrozole, it’s important to support your health as best you can in the waiting period. Chemotherapy can deplete nutrient stores, so try to build up those nutrient stores as best you can while taking letrozole.

Unless you’ve been advised to avoid a specific food by your healthcare provider, here are some generally healthy foods to eat while taking letrozole:

Fruits and vegetables

All types of fruits and vegetables are ideal to eat when taking letrozole. Aim to get a variety of colors to get different antioxidants, which help your body fight inflammation and cell damage. Some fruits and vegetables particularly high in antioxidants include:

• Berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries)
• Kidney and pinto beans
• Dark green leafy vegetables
• Orange vegetables like carrots and pumpkin

Whole grains

Whole grains contain more fiber, protein, and micronutrients than refined grains. In addition, studies show that people with higher fiber intakes tend to have healthier estrogen levels.

Choose high-fiber whole grains like:

• Whole wheat bread or grains made with whole wheat flour
• Brown rice
• Barley
• Whole oats

Healthy fats

Healthy unsaturated fats can be a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help combat inflammation.

• Avocados
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Oily fish (salmon, mackerel, anchovies, etc.)

Lean protein

Taking letrozole might increase the amount of cholesterol in your blood (hypercholesterolemia). High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for heart disease. 

To help combat this effect, try to choose a protein that is lower in saturated fat, like:

• Fish
• Chicken
• Legumes
• Eggs
• Lean cuts of red meat (pork loin, 90% lean beef, etc.)

Other things to avoid while taking Letrozole

Alcohol

While letrozole doesn’t negatively interact with alcohol, it might still be a good idea to abstain from it. 

Estrogen levels tend to be higher in women who drink alcohol than those who don’t. Since letrozole reduces estrogen levels, you may want to limit your alcohol consumption while taking it.

Supplements with estrogen

You should avoid any supplement containing any form of estrogen while taking letrozole. Taking estrogen while on letrozole counteracts the purpose and may lessen letrozole’s effectiveness.

Xenoestrogens

Xenoestrogens are a group of endocrine disruptors (things that negatively impact your hormones) that mimic estrogen.  

Some sources of xenoestrogens to avoid while taking letrozole include:

• Fruits and vegetables sprayed with certain pesticides
• Certain plastics
• Certain ingredients in makeup and nail polishes

Should Letrozole be taken with food?

You can take letrozole with or without food. While nausea isn’t a common side effect of letrozole, there is still a chance you might feel sick from taking letrozole. If that happens, taking letrozole with food can help reduce the stomach upset it causes.

What is the best time to take Letrozole?

It doesn’t matter what time of day you take letrozole. The more important thing is to take it at the same time consistently from day to day. For instance, if you choose to take it in the morning, try to always take it in the morning.

How to reduce the side effects of Letrozole

• Use over-the-counter pain medications as needed for potential joint and muscle pain, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. Consider taking a warm bath to ease sore muscles. Exercise can also ease joint pain from letrozole.
• You might notice hair thinning from taking letrozole. According to a study, supplementation with vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids may help counteract letrozole-related hair thinning.
• If you experience hot flashes from letrozole, try setting the thermostat to a cooler temperature, wear light, breathable clothing, and utilize lightweight bedding and fans to help keep you comfortable.

Natural aromatase inhibitors

Some foods have natural aromatase-inhibiting qualities, which means they may exert a weaker but similar effect as letrozole.

1) Flavonoids

Flavonoids are among the most commonly tested compounds to assess their natural aromatase inhibitor properties. Flavonoids are compounds found in plant foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, tea, wine, and more.

Some of the richest flavonoid foods are:

• Berries
• Red cabbage
• Onion 
• Kale
• Tea
• Red wine
• Dark chocolate
• Soybeans

2) Chrysin

According to a study, this flavonoid is found in honey and passionflower and exhibits aromatase-inhibiting properties. Chrysin supplements are also available for a more potent dosage. 

Another study found that chrysin can help slow breast cancer growth and kill breast cancer cells. The researchers concluded that chrysin might be a promising therapeutic option in addition to other breast cancer treatments or drugs.

3) White mushrooms

In a study, white mushrooms inhibit aromatase activity, making them a potential natural aromatase inhibitor.

Conclusion

Letrozole is a medication that blocks aromatase, an enzyme that increases estrogen levels. 

Letrozole is most commonly used to treat certain types of breast cancer but is also used as a fertility drug to induce ovulation.

Studies have shown inconsistent results regarding which foods might increase estrogen levels and which can decrease estrogen levels. In general, it’s advisable to focus on eating a high-fiber diet rich in plant-based foods to support healthy hormone levels.

You may want to consider limiting alcohol while taking letrozole, as well as any other particular foods your healthcare provider recommends in your specific case.

Explore More

Male Breast Cancer: All You Need To Know.

action, use and side effects

Letrozole is an effective medicine for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. With the help of letrozole, it is possible to significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence of the disease and increase the chances of survival. However, before using the drug, it is necessary to consult a doctor and familiarize yourself with possible side effects.

Letrozole is an antiestrogen drug used in oncology to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It blocks the production of estrogen, which can promote the growth of cancer cells.

Letrozole is used only under medical supervision and by prescription.

The drug is taken once a day, usually at a dose of 2.5 mg. The duration of admission is determined by the doctor and can range from several months to several years.

Like all medicines, Letrozole can cause side effects. Among them:

dizziness, sleep disturbances, increased fatigue, muscle pain, arthralgia, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, erectile dysfunction, depression, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspepsia, skin rashes.

Tell your doctor if you notice any of these effects. It will help determine how to proceed.

It is important to remember that Letrozole may be dangerous for pregnant women. Therefore, the drug should be stopped if you become pregnant while taking it or plan to become pregnant.

Letrozole

Letrozole is an effective drug used in oncology to treat breast tumors in postmenopausal women. It belongs to the group of aromatase inhibitors and helps reduce estrogen levels in the body, which blocks tumor growth.

Letrozole is taken as a tablet once a day. The correct dosage and mode of taking the drug should be determined by the doctor. To achieve the maximum effect, the drug is taken over a long period of time.

Letrozole has a number of side effects that may include dizziness, fatigue, excessive sweating, sleep disturbances, muscle and bone disease. If you notice any unusual symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor.

Before starting the use of Letrozole, a complete examination and advice from an experienced specialist should be obtained. According to medical research, the use of Letrozole helps to reduce the size of breast tumors and improve the quality of life of patients.

• Helps reduce estrogen levels in the body;
• Aromatase inhibitor;
• Taken as tablets once a day;
• Has a number of side effects;
• Complete examination required prior to use.

What is Letrozole?

Letrozole is a drug often used in the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Its main active ingredient is letrozole.

Letrozole is an inhibitor of aromatase, an enzyme that converts male hormones (androgens) into female hormones (estrogens). With breast cancer, the level of estrogen in a woman’s body can be very high and contribute to the development of the disease. The use of Letrozole can reduce the level of estrogen in the blood and slow down the growth of the tumor.

In addition to its use in oncology, Letrozole is sometimes prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women with ovarian dysfunction.

It is important to remember that Letrozole should only be used under medical supervision. In some cases, side effects such as dizziness, nausea, joint and muscle pain, and an increased risk of osteoporosis may occur. Before you start using Letrozole, you must undergo a complete examination and consult with your doctor.

Action Letrozole

Letrozole is a drug that belongs to the class of aromatase inhibitors. It has an effect on the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for the formation of estrogen in women. Letrozole blocks the enzyme and thereby reduces the level of estrogen in the body.

Letrozole’s action is especially important for women with certain types of breast cancer. In some cases, breast cancer is estrogen dependent. Reducing their levels can delay or stop the development of breast tumors. Letrozole is also used to treat estrogen-dependent ovarian tumors and internal endometriosis.

Letrozole has been shown to be effective compared to other drugs in its class. It delivers fewer side effects than similar drugs and is highly effective in fighting breast cancer.

It is important to understand that Letrozole should not be used without the advice of a physician. It has serious side effects such as an increased risk of osteoporosis, hypercholesterolemia, and other bone damage.

How do I take Letrozole?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It interferes with the production of estrogen, a hormone that can promote tumor growth. For maximum effectiveness of the drug, you must follow some rules for use.

The main dosage of Letrozole is one tablet (2. 5 mg) per day. The tablets should be taken at the same time every day, and the crush should not be missed. In case of violation of the dosage, you must consult a doctor.

The drug is taken orally with a small amount of water. The tablets can be taken with or without food. It is not recommended to divide the tablets into smaller doses.

If side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Be aware that Letrozole is a serious drug that must be used properly. To determine the required dosage and duration of treatment, you should consult a doctor.

How to use Letrozole in the treatment of cancer?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat hormone-dependent cancers. It belongs to a class of aromatase inhibitors that help reduce estrogen levels in the body, which is especially important in the treatment of breast cancer.

In order to use Letrozole correctly, you must follow your doctor’s instructions. Usually, the drug is prescribed at 2. 5 mg once a day, while it is taken for several years.

Be aware that this drug may cause side effects including decreased bone density, joint and muscle pain, low mood, dizziness and depression. Therefore, if you develop any unwanted symptoms, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

It should be noted that Letrozole is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation, as it may be toxic to the fetus or breast milk. Also, do not use this drug in combination with some other medicines, so it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting a course of treatment.

In general, Letrozole is effective in the treatment of hormone-dependent tumors, but should only be used as directed by your doctor and strictly following the instructions.

Indications for use of Letrozole

Letrozole is indicated for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer in women in the postoperative period. It may also be prescribed to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women if primary treatment with tamoxifen has not worked.

In addition, Letrozole can be used to prolong the time to return of breast cancer after the main course of treatment.

Some doctors may also prescribe Letrozole to treat infertility in women who are estrogen deficient and cannot conceive despite suitable ovarian stimulation.

But remember that only a doctor can determine the correct dosage of Letrozole based on your body type, health condition, and other medications you may already be taking.

Contraindications for the use of Letrozole

Letrozole should not be used in the presence of the following diseases:

1. Allergic reaction to the drug – if the patient has allergic reactions to the drugs contained in Letrozole, it should be stopped immediately.
2. Liver disease – Letrozole can severely damage the liver and impair its function.
3. Kidney disease and adrenal insufficiency – People with these diseases should not take Letrozole due to possible side effects.

Also, letrozole is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women, children and adolescents under 18 years of age, menopausal women with osteoporosis and those who are under treatment for severe diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Contraindications:

What if I miss a dose of Letrozole?

Depending on how long you missed Letrozole, you may need a different approach.

If it’s been less than 12 hours since you were supposed to take Letrozole, just take it as soon as you remember.

However, if more than 12 hours have passed since you were supposed to take Letrozole by skipping it, the next dose should be taken at the usual time. Do not take an extra dose of Letrozole to make up for a missed one.

In case of doubt or questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

It is important that you take Letrozole regularly and as directed to get the best results from your breast cancer treatment.

What side effects can occur with Letrozole?

Letrozole is widely used to treat breast cancer in women, but like all medicines, it can have side effects. Below we have listed some of them:

• Dizziness or incoordination
• Pain in the muscles, bones or joints
• Stomach disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Weakening of hair on the head

9 0035 Changes in taste sensations

• Certain problems with vision, including blurring and sensitivity to light
• Serious skin reactions such as hives, itching and rashes

status and advice on what to do next. Some side effects can be caused by other problems, so it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any problems.

In general, letrozole treatment can be an effective treatment for breast cancer in women, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and communicate with your healthcare professional to manage them if they occur.

How to avoid side effects when using Letrozole?

Letrozole is used to treat breast cancer in women. However, like any drug, Letrozole can have side effects that are harmful to the patient’s health.

To avoid side effects when using Letrozole, it is necessary to strictly observe the prescribed dosages, as well as take the drug at the indicated time. Do not take more than the indicated dose, and do not skip doses.

It is also important to pay attention to possible contraindications and limitations in the use of Letrozole. It is not recommended to take the drug to women during pregnancy and lactation, as well as in patients with liver or kidney disorders.

If you notice any side effects, you should immediately contact your doctor and stop taking Letrozole until a specific recommendation.

In general, proper dosage and exact following of the instructions for use will help to avoid side effects when using Letrozole and will significantly increase the effectiveness of treatment.

• Proper Dosage – Follow the recommended doses and do not exceed them.
• Follow instructions – take the drug at the indicated time and do not skip doses.
• Marked contraindications – Letrozole is not recommended in case of pregnancy, lactation and kidney or liver disease.
• Minor side effects of – it’s best to know about them in advance so you know when to see a doctor.

What is the composition of Letrozole?

Letrozole is a preparation with the active substance letrozole, which is used in oncology for the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The action of the drug is based on blocking the production of estrogens, which leads to a decrease in their level in the blood and a slowdown in the growth of tumors.

Letrozole also contains auxiliary components such as lactose monohydrate, corn starch, sodium carboxymethyl starch, magnesium stearate. All these ingredients are used to create a stable form of the drug and make it easier to take.

Letrozole is available as 2.5 mg tablets to be taken once daily after meals. The dosage and duration of administration are prescribed by the doctor, depending on the characteristics of the disease and the patient’s condition.

Letrozole may cause some side effects such as dizziness, nausea, weakness, fatigue. However, they usually go away after some time and do not require special treatment.

How much does Letrozole cost?

Letrozole is an effective drug used to treat cancer in women. The price of Letrozole may vary depending on the manufacturer, dosage and place of purchase.

In our pharmacy, Letrozole is available at an affordable price. We guarantee the quality of all our products and offer a convenient method of payment and delivery. Our Letrozole price starts at [insert price], which is a low and affordable price for most patients.

If you have any questions about Letrozole price or shipping options, please contact us. We will be happy to help you with any issue and offer the best solution.

Where can I buy Letrozole?

Letrozole is one of the most effective drugs for the treatment of breast cancer. This drug can be used both to prevent the development of tumor formations, and to treat already detected cancer cells.

If you want to buy Letrozole, it is best to contact specialized medical institutions. Also, the drug can be bought in some online stores specializing in the sale of medicines.

However, before buying Letrozole, you should definitely consult with your doctor. So you can make sure that this drug is really suitable for treating your disease, as well as solve the issue with the optimal dosage.

Do not self-medicate or buy a drug without a doctor’s prescription!

How to store Letrozole?

Store Letrozole in its original packaging at room temperature (max. 25°C), out of the reach of children.

Do not use Letrozole after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.

Avoid exposure to sunlight, freezing or heating.

Letrozole should not be made available for use by third parties, as it is indicated for the treatment of an individual case and may lead to unwanted side effects.

If you have taken an opened pack of Letrozole for treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist for instructions on how to properly use the remaining dose.

How long can Letrozole be taken?

Letrozole is used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Its action is to reduce the level of estrogen in the body, which helps reduce the risk of cancer reappearance.

The course of treatment with Letrozole usually lasts from 5 to 10 years, but this depends on many factors and should be determined individually by the oncologist. It is important not to violate the recommendations of the doctor and take the drug according to the established scheme.

It is worth noting that Letrozole can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, sleep disturbance, decreased mood, etc. In case of any discomfort, you should consult a doctor to adjust the treatment.

In addition, Letrozole is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it may affect fetal development and pass into breast milk.

In general, Letrozole is an effective and safe drug when used correctly and regularly monitored by a physician. Therefore, if you are prescribed a course of treatment with Letrozole, you should strictly follow the instructions and do not stop it without the permission of your doctor.

What are Letrozole analogues?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It helps block the action of estrogen, which affects the growth of cancer cells.

If for some reason you cannot use Letrozole, there are several alternatives that may also be effective in fighting breast cancer. Some of them include:

• Anastrozole . This drug also helps block the effects of estrogen and is often used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
• Tamoxifen . This drug is also used to treat breast cancer, but instead of blocking the action of estrogen, it acts directly on the cancer cells.
• Fulvestrant . This drug helps to block the action of estrogen, but it works on a different level, it blocks the estrogen receptors in the breast.

It is important to seek the advice of your doctor so that he can help you choose the best treatment option for your individual case.

Letrozole is your reliable assistant in the fight against cancer

Cancer is one of the most dangerous and insidious diseases of our time. Fighting them requires great effort and knowledge from medical personnel, and the treatment process itself is often long and complicated. However, there are drugs that can speed up and calm this process, reduce its burden on the patient.

Letrozole is one such drug. It is used in the treatment of many forms of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Letrozole helps lower estrogen levels in the body, which can slow the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

In addition, Letrozole has a number of other useful properties. It allows you to lower blood cholesterol levels, as well as reduce the spread of osteoporosis, which is very important for postmenopausal women.

Of course, like any other medicine, Letrozole has its side effects. These may include symptoms associated with low estrogen levels, such as headaches, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and dizziness. However, these effects are rarely severe and often disappear over time with continued use of the drug.

So, if you are faced with the problem of cancer, do not despair. Letrozole is your reliable assistant in this fight. It will help reduce the risk of cancer cells coming back and improve your chances of recovery. Be sure to check with your doctor for more information about Letrozole.

Q&A:

What is Letrozole?

Letrozole is a drug used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

How does Letrozole work?

Letrozole prevents the formation of estrogen in the woman’s body, which helps in the fight against cancer cells.

What are the contraindications for Letrozole?

Contraindications include liver or kidney complications, calcium imbalance in the blood, and an allergic reaction to drug components.

What are the dosages of Letrozole?

Dosages may vary depending on the condition of the patient and the stage of breast cancer. Usually prescribed 2.5 mg per day.

Can Letrozole be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, Letrozole is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it may harm both the fetus and the baby.

How often should I take Letrozole?

Letrozole is usually taken once a day, at the same time each day.

What are the possible side effects of Letrozole?

Side effects may include headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, bone and muscle pain, mood changes.

Related videos:

PET/CT preparation – PET Technology

PET/CT is a modern, high-tech method for diagnosing cancer. Its accuracy largely depends on compliance with the rules of preparation for the study. Any effect on the body that changes the metabolism can distort the results of research. When making an appointment for the procedure, we recommend that you take into account that the stay in the center can take from 2 to 5 hours.

18F-FDG PET/CT PREPARATION AND PATIENT AID

• 1. Exam is done on an empty stomach

     Eliminate alcohol and drugs containing alcohol 48 hours before the exam.
     Eliminate carbohydrates the day before the study. You can not: sweet, flour, vegetables, fruits, cereals, milk. You can: cottage cheese or sour-milk products, boiled lean meat, boiled fish.
     The procedure is performed strictly on an empty stomach, the last meal is recommended at least 6 hours before the examination.
     When preparing for the examination, try to drink as much as possible: water, coffee and tea without added milk and sugar. Water should be clean drinking, strictly without gas and sweeteners. On the eve of diagnosis with 18F-FDG, a light carbohydrate-free dinner and a large amount of warm water (without gas) are recommended.

     Immediately before the study, after the administration of the radiopharmaceutical, it is essential to drink plenty of water – the quality of the imaging depends on this.

  2. Consult your doctor

     People with diabetes who plan to have a PET/CT procedure should consult with their physician or PET/CT specialist to avoid inaccurate results or complications during the procedure.

  3. Avoid hypothermia

     Do not supercool 36 hours before the PET/CT procedure to avoid activation of metabolic processes in adipose tissue – this may affect the diagnostic results.

  4. Give up physical activity and sports

     36 hours before the examination, it is necessary to minimize physical activity, refuse to play sports.

  5. Take 1-1.5 liters of still drinking water with you

     Ordinary bottled still water without sweeteners will do. Other drinks should be strictly avoided.

  6. Remain still, silent and calm

     Emptying of the bladder is required prior to the PET/CT scan. From the moment of the introduction of the radiopharmaceutical (radiopharmaceutical drug), it is desirable to maintain maximum immobility and be silent. This is due to the fact that radiopharmaceutical tends to accumulate in actively working muscles, which may adversely affect the reliability of the results.

  7. Choose comfortable clothes

     Change of clothes and shoes for the procedure should be comfortable, non-constricting, warm, if possible made of natural fabrics and without metal parts.

  8. Allergies and Pregnancy

     The Nuclear Medicine Center needs to know if you have an allergic reaction to medicines (iodine, antibiotics, painkillers) and if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.

  9. Additional information

     Have any previous examinations (ultrasound, CT, MRI) you have, as well as information about your current radiation or chemotherapy courses, if you are taking them. Bring with you all medical documents related to your illness (extracts, examination protocols, examination results, etc.) and provide them to the specialist of our center.

  Link to memo.

18F-FET PET/CT PREPARATION AND PATIENT REFERENCE

• PET-CT examination is carried out in one stage – 45 minutes after the introduction of the radiotracer with possible delayed scanning. On the day of the examination, you can spend up to 5 hours in the PET center.

  1. At least 48 hours before the examination, it is important to exclude from the diet foods containing a large amount of tyrosine – nuts, legumes, spices, including herbs.
  2. Tell the doctors about the medicines you are taking. If it is necessary to cancel them briefly before the study, discuss this possibility with your doctor.
  3. If you cannot lie still on your back for 10-15 minutes, please let us know before the examination.
  4. If you have any allergic reactions to medications, painkillers, please let us know in advance.
  5. 24-48 hours before the study, avoid the use of alcohol and alcohol-containing drugs (alcohol medicinal tinctures).
  6. Bring 1-1.5 liters of clean, drinkable, non-carbonated, bottled water without sweeteners.
  7. For the examination, you need to choose comfortable, warm clothing. There should be no metal objects on the body and clothes. It is advisable to have easily removable removable shoes (slippers) with you. Patients with limited mobility must bring diapers with them.
  8. It is necessary to take all medical documentation with you: extracts, data from previous studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI, etc.).
  9. Stop eating 12 hours before your scheduled exam time.

18F-PSMA PET/CT PREPARATION AND PATIENT AID

• On the day of the examination, you can spend up to 4 hours in the PET center.

  1. No special training required. There are no restrictions on food intake.
  2. Bring 1-1.5 liters of clean, drinkable, non-carbonated, bottled water without sweeteners.
  3. For the examination, you need to choose comfortable, warm clothes. There should be no metal objects on the body. Bring easily removable removable shoes (slippers).
  4. You must empty your bladder before starting the scan, even if there is no active urge.

  When you contact the Center to make an appointment for a study, be prepared to tell your doctor:

  • If you have any allergic reactions to medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an iodine-containing contrast agent, be sure to tell your doctor about it when you make your appointment.
  • Will you be able to lie still during the entire procedure for about 20 – 30 minutes.

68Ga-DOTA-TATE PET/CT PREPARATION AND PATIENT REFERENCE

• On the day of the examination, you can spend up to 4 hours in the PET center.

  1. No special training required. There are no restrictions on food intake.
  2. Bring 1-1.5 liters of clean, drinkable, non-carbonated, bottled water without sweeteners.
  3. For the examination, you need to choose comfortable, warm clothing. There should be no metal objects on the body. Bring easily removable removable shoes (slippers).
  4. You must empty your bladder before starting the scan, even if there is no active urge.
     

  When you contact the Center to make an appointment for a study, be prepared to tell the doctor:

  • If you have any allergic reactions to medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an iodine-containing contrast agent, be sure to tell your doctor about it when you make your appointment.
  • Will you be able to lie still during the entire procedure – about 30-40 minutes.

  Link to the memo.

68Ga-PSMA PET/CT PREPARATION AND PATIENT REFERENCE

• On the day of the examination, you can spend up to 4 hours in the PET center.

  1. No special training required. There are no restrictions on food intake.
  2. Bring 1-1.5 liters of clean, drinkable, non-carbonated, bottled water without sweeteners.
  3. For the examination, you need to choose comfortable, warm clothes. There should be no metal objects on the body. Bring easily removable removable shoes (slippers).
  4. You must empty your bladder before starting the scan, even if there is no active urge.

  When you contact the Center to make an appointment for a study, be prepared to tell your doctor:

  • If you have any allergic reactions to medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an iodine-containing contrast agent, be sure to tell your doctor about it when you make your appointment.
  • Will you be able to lie still during the entire procedure for about 20 – 30 minutes.

  Link to the memo.

18F-FES PET/CT PREPARATION AND PATIENT AID

• 1. Bring 1-1.