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Letrozole Tablet

Letrozole is a drug that is used to treat breast cancer in menopausal women. It works by reducing the production of a hormone, estrogen that is present in the body.

What is this medication used for

Letrozole is a drug that is used to treat breast cancer in menopausal women. It works by reducing the production of a hormone, estrogen that is present in the body.

Dosage and How to Use

It is a tablet that you take by mouth. It can be taken with food or on an empty stomach with a glass of water or juice.

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose of Letrozole, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time.

Side Effects, Precautions, Contraindication

What are the common side effects of Letrozole?

Letrozole is usually well-tolerated and serious side effects are rare

Bone pain, joint pain or muscle ache

Hot flushes can sometimes occur.
If this occurs, take your tablet at bedtime

Tiredness and lack of energy may occur.
If tiredness is a problem, do not drive a car or operate machinery if you are feeling tired. Avoid alcohol as it may make you feel more tired and drowsy.

Osteoporosis
Calcium supplementation can reduce or prevent bone thining.

Hair thinning may occur
If this occurs, use a gentle baby shampoo and soft brush

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Severe headache or nausea

Skin rash

Chest pain or palpitations

Dizziness

Swollen extremities

Unusual constipation or diarrhea

For women: Unexpected vagina bleeding or discharge

Handling and Storage

Store Letrozole tablets out of the reach of children, at room temperature, away from heat, light and moisture.

Additional Information

Other name: Femara^®

If you have any questions, please call your pharmacist at the National Cancer Centre. The side effects listed above are those that occur frequently. Other side effects may occur. Please contact your doctor to report.

Disclaimer: The National Cancer Centre Singapore does not endorse or promote the use of any product mentioned in this booklet. The information is presented in a summary to provide an understanding and for knowledge only, and may not contain information about all aspects of care. It does not recommend self-management of health problems or replace consultation with your doctor. You should never disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment because of something you have read in this booklet.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher.

Document No. PHM-MED-PEM-106/0916