Letrozole Teva Uk (Letrozole)

• Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor used in the management of estrogen‑dependent breast cancer.
• Hormone receptor‑positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women: reduces tumor growth by lowering estrogen levels.
• Adjuvant treatment of early‑stage breast cancer: decreases risk of disease recurrence after surgery.
• Metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women: slows disease progression and improves survival outcomes.

• Letrozole selectively inhibits the aromatase enzyme, which converts adrenal androgens into estrogens in peripheral tissues. By blocking this conversion, systemic estrogen concentrations fall, depriving estrogen‑dependent tumor cells of a growth stimulus and thereby inhibiting proliferation of hormone‑sensitive breast cancer.

Letrozole may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

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

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe liver injury: jaundice, dark urine, elevated liver enzymes.
• Bone fracture: increased risk of osteoporosis‑related breaks.
• Pulmonary embolism: sudden shortness of breath, chest pain.
• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with swelling, rash, difficulty breathing.
• Elevated cholesterol: significant rise in blood lipid levels.
• QT interval prolongation: potential cardiac rhythm disturbances.

• Before initiating Letrozole therapy, several safety considerations should be reviewed.
• Pregnancy contraindication: Letrozole is category X and must not be used during pregnancy.
• Postmenopausal status: indicated only for women who are confirmed postmenopausal.
• Liver function: monitor hepatic enzymes regularly during treatment.
• Bone health: assess baseline bone mineral density and consider supplementation.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential interactions.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Letrozole can interact with other medicines, affecting its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inducers: may significantly reduce letrozole plasma concentrations.
• Tamoxifen: antagonistic effect that can diminish therapeutic benefit.
• Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect leading to higher bleeding risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP2C19 inhibitors: may raise letrozole levels, requiring observation.
• Statins: potential for increased myopathy; monitor muscle symptoms.
• SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors): may exacerbate hot flashes.