Letrozole 5 Tablet – Treatment for Post-Menopausal Breast Cancer

Letrozole 5 Tablet is an aromatase inhibitor medication used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in post-menopausal women. It works by significantly reducing estrogen production in the body, which helps slow or stop the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancers. This tablet can be used as standalone therapy or in combination with other treatments like surgery or radiation. It’s particularly effective for advanced breast cancer to prevent tumor spread. While generally well-tolerated, patients may experience menopausal-like symptoms such as hot flashes and joint pain. The medication should be taken daily at a consistent time for optimal results.

Uses of Letrozole 5 Tablet:

Treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in post-menopausal women
Adjuvant therapy following surgery or other cancer treatments
Management of advanced/metastatic breast cancer

Benefits of Letrozole 5 Tablet:

Letrozole 5 Tablet effectively reduces estrogen levels, starving estrogen-dependent cancer cells of their growth stimulus. Clinical studies show it can significantly delay cancer progression and improve survival rates in post-menopausal women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer. Compared to some alternatives, it often has better efficacy and tolerability profiles.

Side Effects of Letrozole 5 Tablet:

Common side effects include hot flashes, night sweats, joint pain, fatigue, and weight gain. More serious effects may include osteoporosis, high cholesterol, and increased risk of fractures. About 30% of patients experience musculoskeletal symptoms, which are usually manageable with supportive care.

How to Use Letrozole 5 Tablet?

Take one 5mg tablet daily, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day. Swallow whole with water – do not crush or chew. Continue treatment for as long as prescribed by your oncologist, typically for 5 years or until disease progression.

How Medicine Works?

Letrozole is a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor that blocks the conversion of androgens to estrogens throughout the body. By inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, it reduces circulating estrogen levels by 90-95% in postmenopausal women, depriving estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells of their primary growth stimulus.

Safety Advice:

Pregnancy: Absolutely contraindicated – may cause fetal harm
Breastfeeding: Not recommended
Bone health: Regular bone density monitoring suggested
Liver impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary
Alcohol: No known interaction
Driving: Use caution – may cause dizziness

What If You Missed a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses together to make up for a forgotten tablet.

FAQs:

Q1: How long must I continue Letrozole 5 treatment?

Standard adjuvant therapy lasts 5 years, but duration depends on your cancer stage and response. For advanced cancer, treatment continues until disease progression.

Q2: Why am I experiencing joint pain?

Joint pain affects about 20-30% of patients due to estrogen deprivation. Usually mild-to-moderate, it often improves with time. Consult your doctor for management options.

Q3: Can this medication cause osteoporosis?

Yes, long-term estrogen suppression increases osteoporosis risk. Your doctor may recommend calcium/vitamin D supplements and periodic bone density scans.

Q4: Are hot flashes normal with this treatment?

Yes, hot flashes occur in 40-50% of patients as the body adjusts to lower estrogen levels. They typically lessen over time but may persist throughout treatment.