Information about Letroz Tablet

Letroz Tablet contains Letrozole, a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. It is primarily used in the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Letrozole works by lowering estrogen levels in the body, which helps slow or stop the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancers that rely on estrogen to grow.

Key Ingredient:

• Letrozole: An aromatase inhibitor that reduces the production of estrogen in the body.

Uses:

1. Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer: Letrozole is used in the treatment of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is often prescribed after surgery or radiation therapy to help prevent the cancer from returning.
2. Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer: Letrozole is also used to treat advanced or metastatic breast cancer in women who have already gone through menopause.
3. Fertility Treatment: In some cases, Letrozole may be used off-label to induce ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other ovulatory disorders.

How It Works:

Letrozole works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which converts androgens (hormones produced by the adrenal glands) into estrogen. By reducing estrogen production, Letrozole helps decrease the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells, slowing or stopping their spread.

Dosage and Administration:

• Typical Dosage: One tablet (usually 2.5 mg) taken once daily with or without food, as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• The treatment duration may vary depending on the stage and type of breast cancer, and the patient's response to the medication.
• For fertility treatment, Letrozole is taken in a specific dose and schedule as prescribed by a doctor, typically during certain days of the menstrual cycle.

Side Effects:

Like all medications, Letroz Tablet may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Hot flashes
  • Fatigue
  • Joint or bone pain
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Sweating
• Serious Side Effects (require immediate medical attention):
  • Bone thinning (osteoporosis) or fractures
  • Increased cholesterol levels
  • Swelling of the hands or feet
  • Shortness of breath or chest pain
  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Precautions:

• Bone Health: Letrozole may cause bone loss or osteoporosis, so regular monitoring of bone density may be required.
• Liver Function: Patients with liver problems should use Letrozole cautiously and under medical supervision.
• Cardiovascular Health: It may increase cholesterol levels, and long-term use could be associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
• Not for Use in Pregnancy: Letrozole should not be used during pregnancy, as it can harm an unborn baby. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking Letrozole.

Drug Interactions:

• Tamoxifen: Taking Letrozole with Tamoxifen, another breast cancer medication, can reduce the effectiveness of Letrozole.
• Estrogen Therapy: Estrogen-containing products (like hormone replacement therapy) may interfere with the action of Letrozole.
• Warfarin: Letrozole may affect blood clotting, so caution is advised if used with blood thinners like Warfarin.

Benefits:

• Reduces Estrogen: Effectively lowers estrogen levels, helping slow the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancer.
• Postmenopausal Use: Ideal for postmenopausal women to treat early or advanced breast cancer.
• Improves Survival: In many cases, Letrozole has been shown to improve survival rates in breast cancer patients.

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Letroz Tablet is an important medication for the treatment of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It plays a key role in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and slowing the progression of advanced breast cancer. It should only be taken under medical supervision, as it may cause side effects, particularly related to bone health and cardiovascular risk.