letrozole

Pronunciation: LET roe zol

Brand: Femara

Femara

slide 1 of 5, Femara,

2.5 mg, round, yellow, imprinted with FV, CG

Image of Femara
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Letrozole

slide 2 of 5, Letrozole,

2.5 mg, round, yellow, imprinted with TEVA, B1

Image of Letrozole
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Letrozole

slide 3 of 5, Letrozole,

2.5 mg, round, yellow, imprinted with LT

Image of Letrozole
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Letrozole

slide 4 of 5, Letrozole,

2.5 mg, round, yellow, imprinted with N, L

Image of Letrozole
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Letrozole

slide 5 of 5, Letrozole,

2.5 mg, round, yellow, imprinted with APO, LET 2.5

Image of Letrozole
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What is the most important information I should know about letrozole?

You should not use letrozole if you are pregnant.

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 not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking letrozole?

You should not use letrozole if you are allergic to it.

This medicine is for use only in women who can no longer get pregnant. Letrozole can harm an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control if you are not past menopause. Keep using birth control for at least 3 weeks after your last dose of letrozole. Tell your doctor if you think you may be pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • liver disease (especially cirrhosis);
  • osteoporosis, osteopenia (low bone mineral density);
  • high cholesterol; or
  • if you also take tamoxifen.

You should not breastfeed while you are using letrozole and for at least 3 weeks after your last dose.

How should I take letrozole?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

You may take letrozole with or without food.

You will need frequent medical tests, and your bone mineral density may also need to be checked.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking letrozole?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

What are the possible side effects of letrozole?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects may include:

  • hot flashes, warmth or redness in your face or chest;
  • headache, dizziness, weakness;
  • bone pain, muscle or joint pain;
  • swelling, weight gain;
  • increased sweating; or
  • increased cholesterol in your blood.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect letrozole?

Other drugs may affect letrozole, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about letrozole.

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