About

Letrozole is an oral non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor used in the treatment of hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by selectively inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens into estrogens. By reducing estrogen levels, letrozole helps to slow or stop the growth of breast cancer cells that rely on estrogen for proliferation. It is often used as adjuvant therapy after surgery, as extended adjuvant therapy, or for first-line treatment of advanced breast cancer.

This medication is a crucial component in endocrine therapy for breast cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer is estrogen receptor-positive. Its mechanism of action provides a targeted approach to hormone-dependent cancers, offering significant benefits in disease-free survival and overall survival rates for eligible patients. Regular monitoring of bone density and lipid profiles is often recommended during treatment due to potential side effects.

Uses

Adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
Extended adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have received prior tamoxifen therapy.
First-line treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
Treatment of advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women with disease progression following antiestrogen therapy.

Directions For Use

Take one tablet orally once daily, with or without food, as directed by your physician.

Benefits

Effectively lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women.
Reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence.
Improves disease-free survival in early breast cancer.
Offers a targeted therapy for hormone-sensitive tumors.
Can be used as first-line or extended adjuvant treatment.
Generally well-tolerated compared to chemotherapy.

Side Effects

Hot flashes
Joint pain (arthralgia)
Fatigue
Nausea
Headache
Dizziness
Bone pain
Osteoporosis
Hair thinning
Sweating
Weight gain
Peripheral edema

Safety Measures

Alcohol - Alcohol consumption should be moderate. It does not directly interact with letrozole but can exacerbate some side effects like dizziness or fatigue.
Pregnancy - Letrozole is contraindicated in pregnant women as it can cause fetal harm. Effective contraception is required for premenopausal women.
Breastfeeding - It is not known if letrozole is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, breastfeeding is not recommended.
Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary for severe liver dysfunction.
Kidney - No dose adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
Lung - No specific lung-related precautions are typically noted, but any new or worsening respiratory symptoms should be reported to a doctor.

Disclaimer

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