Chemical name: 4-[(4-cyanophenyl)-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)methyl]benzonitrile;
Formula: C17H11N5

FEMARA 2.5mg (Letrozole) – DRAGON PHARMA

Indications: Femara (Letrozole) is a medication primarily used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is prescribed as adjuvant therapy (after surgery) to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence or as first-line or second-line treatment for metastatic breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Letrozole may also be used off-label in certain cases of infertility, particularly in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or ovulation disorders.

Mechanism of Action: Letrozole, the active ingredient in Femara, is a potent aromatase inhibitor that works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens (male hormones) into estrogens (female hormones) in peripheral tissues such as fat, muscle, and breast tissue. By blocking estrogen production, letrozole reduces the estrogen levels in the body, which can help slow or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells.

Benefits:

1. Reduction of Cancer Recurrence: Femara is effective in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, both in the adjuvant setting after surgery and in the treatment of metastatic disease.
2. Improved Survival Rates: Treatment with Femara has been associated with improved overall survival rates and progression-free survival compared to other hormonal therapies or placebo in clinical trials.
3. Higher Response Rates: Femara has been shown to achieve higher response rates and longer durations of response in women with metastatic breast cancer compared to tamoxifen, another commonly used hormonal therapy.
4. Fertility Enhancement: In women with infertility due to anovulation or irregular ovulation, letrozole may be used off-label to induce ovulation and improve fertility by promoting the development and release of mature eggs from the ovaries.
5. Lower Risk of Endometrial Cancer: Unlike tamoxifen, which has been associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer, letrozole does not stimulate estrogen receptors in the uterus and may be associated with a lower risk of endometrial cancer.

Femara (Letrozole) is a well-established medication for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, offering significant benefits in terms of reducing cancer recurrence, improving survival rates, and enhancing fertility in certain cases. However, it may cause side effects such as hot flashes, fatigue, bone thinning (osteoporosis), and joint pain. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks of Femara treatment with their healthcare provider before starting therapy. This description is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.