Femara (Letrozole)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Femara Used For?
Femara is a medication that contains letrozole, primarily used to treat breast cancer in women who have stopped menstruating.
Primary Uses
Femara is used to treat breast cancer in post-menopausal women.
How It Works
Femara works by reducing the levels of estrogen in the body, which can help slow or stop the growth of certain types of breast tumors that require estrogen to grow.
Good to know: Femara is not addictive.
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How to Take Femara
It is important to take Femara as directed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dosage is one Femara tablet (2.5 mg) taken once daily, preferably at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. If it's not close to your next dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take two tablets to make up for a missed dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Muscle, joint, back, or breast pain
- Increased blood pressure or cholesterol
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Hot flushes
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Hair loss
- Weight changes
- Vaginal bleeding or discharge
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Allergic reactions (e.g., wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Inability to urinate
- Vision problems
- Signs of a heart attack (e.g., crushing chest pain)
- Bone fractures
- Tendonitis or tendon tears
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind while taking Femara.
Who Should Not Take Femara
Do not take Femara if you are allergic to letrozole or any of its ingredients, if you are still menstruating (pre-menopausal), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, a history of bone fractures, or osteoporosis.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Femara should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the baby.
Drug Interactions
Some medications can interact with Femara and affect how it works.
- Anti-fungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir)
- Certain antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, telithromycin)
- Seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital)
- Other breast cancer medications (e.g., carbamazepine, tamoxifen)
- St. John's wort
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking Femara.
Alcohol
Alcohol may increase feelings of tiredness or dizziness associated with Femara.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Femara may cause fatigue or dizziness, so avoid driving or using heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Femara in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Femara, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Femara to work can vary by individual, but it is important to take it consistently as prescribed.
You can take Femara with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, consider taking it with a meal.
No, Femara is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Femara suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this could affect your treatment.
Be cautious with alcohol, as it may increase feelings of tiredness or dizziness.
Weight changes can occur, but individual responses may vary.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health with their doctor to ensure Femara is safe for them.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. Do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.