Femara

Drug Name

Femara (Letrozole)

Drug Uses

Femara is an aromatase inhibitor that reduces the amount of estrogen produced in the body and is used to treat certain kinds of breast cancer in women past menopause. It is usually prescribed in cancers that are resistant to the more commonly-used anti-estrogen medications such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex).

How it is taken

Femara can be taken by mouth with or without food once daily. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor. You must not stop taking the medication unless directed by your physician.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Femara is an aromatase inhibitor and it reduces the amount of estrogen produced in the body. Certain types of breast cancers are promoted by estrogen. Femara inhibits the enzyme in the adrenal glands (aromatase)

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Femara, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 59 and 86 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, liver problems, allergies (especially drug allergies).

Femara may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Femara and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with Femara and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

It is unknown whether Femara is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Possible Side Effects

This drug is generally well tolerated. Fatigue, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, headache, drowsiness or dizziness may occur.

If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely, but report promptly: chest pain, stomach pain, trouble breathing, hot flushes, rash, itching. Very unlikely, but report promptly: swelling/redness/weakness/ pain in legs or arms, vision problems, unusual vaginal bleeding.

If symptoms worse or do not improve or if you notice other effects, not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.