“Letrozole Tablets USP 2.5 mg – Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer & Fertility Treatment”

✅ What is Letrozole?

Letrozole Tablets USP 2.5 mg is a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor used primarily to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by reducing estrogen levels in the body, which helps slow or stop the growth of certain types of breast tumors that need estrogen to grow.

It is also used off-label in fertility treatment for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other ovulatory disorders.

🧬 Mechanism of Action

Letrozole works by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens into estrogens in the body. By lowering estrogen levels, Letrozole prevents or slows the growth of estrogen-sensitive cancer cells. In fertility treatments, the reduction in estrogen triggers a rise in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates ovulation.

🩺 Indications / Uses

✔️ Approved Uses:

• Treatment of early breast cancer in postmenopausal women
• Advanced/metastatic breast cancer that is hormone-receptor-positive
• Adjuvant therapy following tamoxifen treatment

✔️ Off-Label Uses:

• Ovulation induction in women with PCOS or anovulation
• Fertility treatment in unexplained infertility
• Endometriosis-related infertility

💊 Dosage & Administration

• Breast Cancer:
  • Standard dose: 2.5 mg once daily, with or without food
  • Duration: May be long-term (up to 5 years), depending on patient response
• Fertility/Ovulation Induction (off-label):
  • Common protocol: 2.5 to 7.5 mg daily for 5 days, usually starting on day 3 or 5 of the menstrual cycle

Note: Use only under medical supervision, especially for fertility or long-term cancer therapy.

⚠️ Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Hot flashes
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Increased sweating

Serious side effects:

• Osteoporosis or bone fractures
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Liver dysfunction
• Depression or mood swings
• Blood clots (rare)

🚫 Warnings & Precautions

• Not for use in premenopausal women for breast cancer treatment (unless directed in fertility care)
• Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis, heart disease, or liver dysfunction
• Regular monitoring of bone mineral density, liver function, and lipid profile is recommended

🔄 Drug Interactions

Letrozole may interact with:

• Estrogen-containing medications (e.g., hormone replacement therapy)
• Tamoxifen (may reduce Letrozole’s effectiveness)
• Certain CYP450-modifying drugs

📦 Storage

• Store below 30°C (86°F)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children