How to Use Letrozole

Letrozole is an anti-estrogen drug sold under the brand name Femara and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1997. It is used to treat postmenopausal women who have breast cancer caused by the presence of specific estrogens in the bloodstream. These estrogens are primarily produced by the adrenal glands. Letrozole works by inhibiting the production of aromatase, which produces estrogens such as estrone and estradiol, in the adrenal glands.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify patients most likely to benefit from Letrozole. Doctors usually prescribe letrozole to treat forms of breast cancer that are resistant to more common anti-estrogen medications such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex). They may also prescribe it for patients with types of breast cancer that are sensitive to hormones.

• 2

  Examine the general instructions for taking Letrozole. The tablets contain 2.5 milligrams of Letrozole and should be stored at a temperature from 59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Letrozole is generally taken once per day and may be taken with or without food.

• 3

  Look at specific instructions for Letrozole regarding pregnant and nursing women. Pregnant women should not take Letrozole at all as it could harm the fetus. It is not yet known if Letrozole is secreted into breast milk.

• 4

  Learn about drug interactions with Letrozole. Problems can occur with antihistamines, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers, psychiatric medications, sedatives and tranquilizers.

• 5

  Study the common side effects of letrozole. These include constipation, chest pains, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. Letrozole has a lower risk of side effects than other anti-estrogen medications such as megestrol (Megace).