What is letrozole?
Letrozole lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, which may slow the growth of certain types of breast tumors that need estrogen to grow in the body.
Letrozole is used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is often given to women who have been taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Soltamox) for 5 years.
Letrozole may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.
What is the most important information I should know about letrozole?
Before taking letrozole, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.
Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor.
There may be other drugs that can affect letrozole. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you think you have used too much medicine, or if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or is especially bothersome.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using letrozole?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to letrozole, or if you have not gone completely through menopause.
Before taking letrozole, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.
FDA pregnancy category D: This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use letrozole if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.
It is not known whether letrozole passes into breast milk. Do not take letrozole if you are breast-feeding a baby.