Letrozole, marketed under the brand name Femara, is a medication primarily used in the treatment of hormonally-responsive breast cancer after surgery. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which function by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body. Estrogen can promote the growth of some breast cancer cells, so decreasing its levels can help prevent cancer recurrence.
Letrozole works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is involved in the production of estrogen in postmenopausal women. By blocking this enzyme, Letrozole effectively lowers estrogen levels, thereby slowing or stopping the growth of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells. It is particularly used in postmenopausal women because their primary source of estrogen is through the conversion of androgens to estrogen by the aromatase enzyme, rather than ovarian production.
The drug is typically administered orally, with a common dosage being 2.5 mg once daily. Treatment with Letrozole can last for several years, often five years, as part of adjuvant therapy to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence. It may also be used in metastatic breast cancer and sometimes as a fertility treatment to induce ovulation.
Common side effects of Letrozole include hot flashes, joint pain, fatigue, and increased sweating. More serious but less common side effects can include osteoporosis and cardiovascular issues, due to the prolonged reduction of estrogen levels in the body. Regular monitoring by healthcare providers is necessary to manage and mitigate these potential side effects.
Letrozole has significantly improved outcomes for many breast cancer patients, providing an effective option for hormone receptor-positive cases. Its role in breast cancer therapy highlights the importance of targeted treatments that address the specific mechanisms driving cancer growth.
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