Letrozole Tablets 2.5mg

Letrozole 2.5mg tablets are a medication used to treat certain types of breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors.

 

Active Ingredient

 

The active ingredient is Letrozole. The standard tablet strength is 2.5mg.

 

Mechanism of Action

 

The growth of many breast cancers is stimulated by the hormone estrogen. In postmenopausal women, the body primarily produces estrogen by converting other hormones (androgens) using an enzyme called aromatase. Letrozole works by blocking this enzyme. By inhibiting aromatase, Letrozole significantly reduces the amount of estrogen in the body, which in turn slows down or stops the growth of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells.

 

Key Uses

 

Letrozole is primarily used for the following purposes:

• Adjuvant Treatment: As a treatment after surgery for hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.

• Extended Adjuvant Treatment: For women who have already been treated with another hormonal therapy like tamoxifen for a period of five years. Letrozole is then used to further reduce the risk of recurrence.

• First-line Treatment: For advanced or metastatic breast cancer that is hormone receptor-positive or has an unknown hormone receptor status.

• Neoadjuvant Treatment: To shrink large tumors before surgery, making them easier to remove.

 

Dosage and Administration

 

• The typical dose for adults is one 2.5mg tablet taken once a day.

• The tablet can be taken with or without food.

• It's important to take the tablet at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in the body.

• The duration of treatment can vary, often lasting for five years or longer, depending on the specific condition and a doctor's recommendation.

 

Common Side Effects

 

As an aromatase inhibitor, Letrozole can cause side effects by lowering estrogen levels, many of which are similar to menopause symptoms. Common side effects include:

• Hot flashes and increased sweating

• Joint, muscle, or bone pain

• Fatigue, dizziness, or headache

• Nausea

• Weight gain

• Hair thinning

 

Warnings and Precautions

 

• Bone Health: Letrozole's action of lowering estrogen can lead to a decrease in bone mineral density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Your doctor may recommend regular bone density scans and may prescribe calcium and vitamin D supplements.

• Cholesterol Levels: Letrozole may increase blood cholesterol levels. Regular monitoring may be necessary.

• Pregnancy and Menopausal Status: Letrozole is only for postmenopausal women. It is not recommended for premenopausal women, and it should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can harm a developing fetus. Women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment.

• Drug Interactions: Letrozole can interact with other medications, including certain estrogen-containing therapies and tamoxifen. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.