Letrozole is a medication commonly used to treat breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause. It's also sometimes used for fertility treatment in women who are struggling to conceive due to certain hormone imbalances. Letrozole belongs to a group of medicines called aromatase inhibitors.
Breast cancer often grows in response to the hormone estrogen. Estrogen is a natural hormone in the body that can encourage some breast cancers to grow. Letrozole works by blocking an enzyme called aromatase, which helps produce estrogen in the body. By blocking this enzyme, Letrozole reduces the amount of estrogen circulating in the body, which can slow down or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells.
For women trying to get pregnant, Letrozole can be used to help stimulate ovulation. Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary, which is necessary for pregnancy to occur. Letrozole works by stimulating the production of hormones that trigger ovulation, increasing the chances of conception.
Letrozole is usually taken orally, in the form of a tablet, once a day. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment based on your specific condition and response to the medication.
Like all medicines, Letrozole can cause side effects. Common side effects may include hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, joint pain, headaches, and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but if they persist or become bothersome, it's essential to discuss them with your doctor.
In rare cases, Letrozole may cause more severe side effects, such as bone thinning (osteoporosis) or an increased risk of fractures. our doctor may monitor your bone density and recommend calcium or vitamin D supplements to help protect your bones.
Before starting Letrozole, it's essential to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements. Some medicines may interact with Letrozole, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Overall, Letrozole is an effective medication for treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women and for stimulating ovulation in women with fertility issues. It works by blocking estrogen production in the body, slowing down cancer growth, or helping induce ovulation for pregnancy. If you have any questions or concerns about Letrozole, be sure to discuss them with our doctor.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist
Letrozole
Sure, let's make it even simpler:Imagine estrogen as the fuel for certain types of breast cancer. Letrozole acts like a blocker, stopping the production of this fuel. With less fuel available, the cancer cells don't grow as quickly or as much. So, Letrozole helps slow down the growth of the cancer.
Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist