Femara (Letrozole)

Femara is used to treat postmenopausal women with breast cancer that is resistant to the more commonly-used anti-estrogen medications such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex). It also is approved for treating postmenopausal women after surgery who have hormone-sensitive early breast cancer.

Take by mouth once daily with or without food or as directed. Do not stop taking this medication unless instructed to do so by your doctor or pharmacist. Continue to take your other medications unless instructed otherwise.

Femara is an oral, anti-estrogen drug that is used for treating postmenopausal women with breast cancer. The growth of some breast cancers in postmenopausal women is promoted by estrogens that circulate in the blood, and the adrenal glands are the main source of these circulating estrogens. Femara inhibits the enzyme in the adrenal glands (aromatase) that produces the estrogens, estradiol and estrone.

If you miss a dose of Femara, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, allergies (especially drug allergies). Limit alcohol intake as it may increase the side effects of this drug. Caution, performing tasks, requiring mental alertness (e.g., driving), since it is possible this drug may cause drowsiness. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for details. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

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 you notice other effects, not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

If you have any questions about Femara, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Femara is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.