Letrozole as an oestrogen blocker

Letrozole blocks aromatase, an enzyme involved in making oestrogen after the ovaries produce less of it. This is why it is called an aromatase inhibitor. Lower oestrogen can remove a growth signal from cancers that use that hormone. It does not work for every cancer, and a specialist chooses it when the tumour and the person's circumstances make this approach suitable.

The same hormone change can contribute to hot flushes, sweating, reduced sexual comfort, joint aches, stiffness, tiredness, or changes in bone strength. These effects are not proof that treatment is working or failing.

Use letrozole exactly as prescribed and take missed-dose advice from your treatment team or pharmacist. Keep appointments so symptoms, other medicines, and bone health can be reviewed. Report pain or stiffness early, especially if it changes how you walk, climb stairs, or use your hands.

Do not add supplements, stop doses, or switch to another oestrogen-lowering product without checking first. A clinician can suggest suitable measures for hot flushes, vaginal symptoms, or musculoskeletal discomfort.

Seek urgent help for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, one-sided weakness, fainting, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. Contact your oncology team promptly for a suspected fracture, severe new bone pain, or side effects that make continued dosing difficult.

Ask what hormone sensitivity means in your case, how treatment response will be followed, how bone health will be protected, and what alternatives exist if side effects interfere with daily life.