Femara
Generic Name
Letrozole
Manufacturer
Novartis
Country
Switzerland
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| femara 25 mg tablet | ৳ 113.38 | ৳ 1,133.80 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Femara (Letrozole) 2.5 mg tablet is an oral non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by reducing the amount of estrogen the body produces, which can slow or stop the growth of certain types of breast cancer.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Recommended dose is 2.5 mg once daily, irrespective of meals.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≥10 mL/min). Data are insufficient for severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Oral administration. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Letrozole is a highly potent and selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor. It acts by competitively binding to the heme of the cytochrome P450 enzyme aromatase, preventing the conversion of androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues. This leads to a significant reduction in circulating estrogen levels, which is crucial for treating hormone-sensitive breast cancers.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Significant estrogen suppression within 24-48 hours.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine (approximately 90%) as metabolites and about 6% as unchanged drug.
Half life
Approximately 2 days (48 hours).
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; food has a minor effect on absorption rate but not on extent.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver via CYP2A6 and CYP3A4 to an inactive carbinol metabolite.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
- •Premenopausal women.
- •Pregnancy and lactation.
- •Severe hepatic impairment.
Drug Interactions
Tamoxifen
Co-administration with tamoxifen should be avoided as it may reduce letrozole plasma concentrations.
Oral anticoagulants
Letrozole may increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarin-type anticoagulants. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
CYP3A4 and CYP2A6 inhibitors/inducers
Co-administration with strong inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4 and CYP2A6 should be done with caution, as letrozole is primarily metabolized by these enzymes.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F) in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Limited experience with overdose. There is no specific antidote. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Patients should be closely monitored for adverse effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Femara is contraindicated in premenopausal women, pregnancy, and lactation. It can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Generic versions available, original patent expired
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Global Brand Names
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