Another name for letrozole

A pharmacy may supply letrozole under a different manufacturer name. The packaging can look different even when the active ingredient and prescribed dose are unchanged.

The clearest way to identify the medicine is to find “letrozole” in the active-ingredient section of the label. Femara identifies a branded product, while a generic pack may display the manufacturer's name more prominently. Letrozole belongs to a group of medicines called aromatase inhibitors, which reduce the body's production of oestrogen. It may be prescribed as hormone therapy for certain hormone-sensitive breast cancers.

Matching the active ingredient does not mean every tablet looks alike. Colour, shape, markings and inactive ingredients can differ between manufacturers.

Compare the active ingredient and dose on the new pack with your prescription or current medicine list. Follow the prescribed schedule, and do not take both Femara and generic letrozole as though they were separate medicines. If the name, strength, tablet appearance or directions are unexpected, pause and ask the dispensing pharmacist to confirm the product before your next dose.

Keep an up-to-date list that includes letrozole, other prescribed medicines, non-prescription products and supplements. Tell the oncology team about troublesome joint pain, hot flushes, marked tiredness or any new symptom rather than changing or stopping treatment on your own.

Get urgent medical help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain, sudden weakness on one side, difficulty speaking, or a painful swollen leg. These symptoms need prompt assessment regardless of whether they appear related to letrozole. Contact your treating team soon if side effects interfere with walking, sleep, eating or usual activities, or if you have taken more tablets than directed.

Ask whether the replacement pack contains the same dose, which side effects should be reported between visits, and what to do after a missed dose. You can also ask how bone health, cholesterol and treatment tolerance will be monitored while you take letrozole.