Letrozol Teva (Letrozole)

Letrozol Teva is an aromatase inhibitor used in the management of hormone‑dependent breast cancer. It works by lowering estrogen levels in postmenopausal patients.

• Hormone receptor‑positive early‑stage breast cancer: reduces risk of disease recurrence after surgery.
• Hormone receptor‑positive metastatic breast cancer: slows disease progression and extends survival.
• Neoadjuvant therapy for hormone receptor‑positive breast cancer: decreases tumor size before surgery.

• Letrozole reversibly binds to the aromatase enzyme, a non‑steroidal inhibitor that blocks the conversion of androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues. By reducing circulating estrogen levels, it deprives estrogen‑dependent tumor cells of growth stimulation, thereby inhibiting tumor proliferation in postmenopausal women.

Adverse reactions to Letrozol Teva are reported across a range of frequencies.

Common Side Effects

• Hot flashes: sudden feeling of warmth, often with sweating.
• Joint and muscle pain: aching or stiffness in limbs.
• Fatigue: persistent tiredness not relieved by rest.
• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Headache: pressure or throbbing pain.
• Dizziness: light‑headed sensation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe liver injury: jaundice, elevated liver enzymes.
• Osteoporotic fractures: increased risk of bone breaks.
• Pulmonary embolism: sudden shortness of breath, chest pain.
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, swelling, anaphylaxis.
• Elevated cholesterol: significant rise in lipid levels.
• Cardiac arrhythmias: abnormal heart rhythms, including QT prolongation.

Before initiating Letrozol Teva, clinicians should evaluate several safety considerations.

• Pregnancy contraindication: avoid use in pregnancy; teratogenic risk (Category X).
• Bone health monitoring: assess bone mineral density periodically.
• Liver function tests: perform baseline and periodic liver enzyme assessments.
• Lipid profile: monitor cholesterol levels during therapy.
• Menopausal status verification: ensure patient is postmenopausal before prescribing.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and light.

Letrozol Teva may interact with other medicines that affect its metabolism or therapeutic effect.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Tamoxifen: concurrent use reduces efficacy of both agents.
• Strong CYP2A6 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): may increase letrozole plasma concentrations.
• Estrogen replacement therapy: antagonizes letrozole's estrogen‑lowering action.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): may lower letrozole levels.
• Warfarin: potential alteration of anticoagulant effect, monitor INR.
• Statins: possible increase in statin plasma levels, watch for myopathy.