Letrozole endocrine therapy

Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor. It reduces the body's production of oestrogen, a hormone that can encourage some cancer cells to grow. It is used most often in selected breast cancer treatment plans and may be discussed in other hormone-related situations by a specialist. The choice depends on the diagnosis, menopausal status, previous treatment, and the features of the tumour.

Because oestrogen also affects bones, joints, mood, and vaginal tissues, some people notice hot flushes, joint stiffness, tiredness, sleep changes, or vaginal dryness. Symptoms vary, and a treatment plan can include monitoring and supportive care.

Take the prescribed dose at a consistent time and follow the instructions for missed doses. Keep a record of troublesome symptoms rather than silently stopping treatment. Your team may review bone health, other medicines, and whether symptoms are affecting movement, sleep, or emotional wellbeing.

Tell the oncology team about supplements, fertility plans, new medicines, and any history of bone problems. Treatment may be adjusted only after a clinician weighs the benefits against side effects and the cancer plan.

Contact your treatment team promptly for severe or persistent joint pain, a new fracture, marked weakness, unusual bleeding, or symptoms that prevent you taking the medicine. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, or swelling of the face or throat.

Ask why letrozole is recommended for your diagnosis, how long the planned course is, how bone health will be checked, and which side effects should be reported quickly. Ask how it fits with surgery, chemotherapy, or another hormone treatment.