Letrozole (By Mouth)

Letrozole (LET-roe-zole)

Treats breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause.

Brand Name(s):

Femara
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to letrozole.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You may take this medicine with or without food.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Although it is unlikely that a postmenopausal woman might become pregnant, you should know that using this medicine while you are pregnant could harm the unborn baby. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have severe liver disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Chest pain
• Cough or trouble breathing
• Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg
• Severe headache, slurred speech, vision changes
• Severe pain in the back of your leg (calf)

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Bone, joint, or back pain
• Hot flashes
• Nausea, vomiting, constipation
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.