Letrozole

 
Generic Name: letrozole

Brands: Femara

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

· Before taking Letrozole, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take Letrozole, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

 

What is Letrozole?

· Letrozole blocks the use of estrogen by certain types of breast cancer that require estrogen to grow.

· Letrozole is used to treat breast cancer.

· Letrozole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

Who should not take Letrozole?

· Before taking Letrozole, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take Letrozole, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

· Letrozole is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that Letrozole is known to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Letrozole if you are pregnant.

· It is not known whether Letrozole passes into breast milk. Do not take Letrozole if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I take Letrozole?

· Take Letrozole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

· Letrozole is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

· Letrozole can be taken with or without food.

· Store Letrozole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· An overdose of Letrozole is unlikely to threaten life. Call an emergency room or a poison control center for advice if you suspect that a very large dose of Letrozole has been ingested.

 

What should I avoid while taking Letrozole?

· There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking Letrozole unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

 

What are the possible side effects of Letrozole?

· Stop taking Letrozole and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to Letrozole.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Letrozole and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·shortness of breath or coughing;     ·increased blood pressure;     ·muscle or joint pain;     ·headache;     ·dizziness;     ·fatigue;     ·weakness;     ·swelling or water retention;     ·nausea and vomiting;     ·diarrhea or constipation;     ·loss of appetite;     ·vaginal bleeding;     ·hot flashes;     ·weight gain; or     ·rash.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Letrozole?

· There are no known interactions between Letrozole and other medications. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines during treatment with Letrozole.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Letrozole written for health professionals that you may read.

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