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Letrozole Coupon - Letrozole 2.5mg tablet

letrozole

Generic Femara
Used for Breast Cancer
Used for Breast Cancer

Letrozole (Femara) is an aromatase inhibitor, a type of hormonal therapy. It’s FDA-approved to treat or prevent breast cancer in females who’ve already gone through menopause. It’s sometimes prescribed off-label by fertility specialists to help females become pregnant. Letrozole (Femara) is taken by mouth, typically once a day for breast cancer. Common side effects include hot flashes and pain in the bones, muscles, and joints.

Last reviewed on July 11, 2024
basics-icon

What is Letrozole (Femara)?

What is Letrozole (Femara) used for?

How Letrozole (Femara) works

Certain types of breast cancer cells grow when there is estrogen present. Aromatase is a protein in the body involved in making estrogen.

Letrozole (Femara) is an aromatase inhibitor that works by blocking aromatase. In doing so, letrozole (Femara) prevents breast cancer cells from getting the estrogen that’s fuel for the cancer to grow and spread.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsFemara
Drug ClassAromatase inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Letrozole (Femara) essentials

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What are the side effects of Letrozole (Femara)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • High blood cholesterol levels (52%)
  • Hot flashes (34%)
  • Muscle, bone, or joint pain (25%)
Note: Side effects reported by females who took letrozole (Femara) after surgery for early breast cancer.

Other Side Effects

  • Bone fractures
  • Night sweats
  • Weight gain
  • Nausea

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Bone fracture

breast pain

chest pain

chills, fever, or flu-like symptoms

mental depression

swelling of the feet or lower legs

Rare

Continuing or severe nervousness

cough

dizziness or lightheadedness

fainting

fast heartbeat

heart attack

increased sweating

nausea

pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves

severe and sudden, unexplained troubled breathing

severe, sudden headache

slurred speech

sudden loss of coordination

sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arm or leg

swollen glands

vaginal bleeding

vision changes

Incidence not known

Black, tarry stools

blindness

blurred vision

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

chest discomfort

dark urine

decreased vision

dilated neck veins

extreme tiredness or weakness

general tiredness or weakness

increased need to urinate

irregular breathing

irregular heartbeat

light-colored stools

painful or difficult urination

passing urine more often

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

upper right abdominal pain

weight gain

white or brownish vaginal discharge

yellow eyes and skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Back pain

bone pain

hot flashes (sudden sweating and feeling of warmth)

joint pain

muscle pain

Less common

Anxiety

confusion

constipation

diarrhea

dry mouth

headache

increased thirst

loss of appetite or weight loss

metallic taste

skin rash or itching

sleepiness

spinning or whirling sensation causing loss of balance

stomach pain or upset

trouble sleeping

vomiting

weakness

Incidence not known

Bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste and thirst

being forgetful

change in taste

dryness of the skin

hair loss

hives or welts

increased appetite

irritability

nervousness

red, sore eyes

redness of the skin

swelling or inflammation of the mouth

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Letrozole (Femara)

thumbs-up

Pros

Can be used during early and advanced stages of breast cancer

Taken by mouth once daily

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Only for females who've reached menopause (for treating breast cancer)

Can cause menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats

Can weaken your bones if taken long-term

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Letrozole (Femara)

pharmacist
  • Take letrozole (Femara) dose around the same time each day, with or without a meal.

    • Letrozole (Femara) can cause fatigue, dizziness, and sleepiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

      • Letrozole (Femara) can cause side effects similar to menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes, night sweats, and headaches. Try to avoid alcohol, caffeine, or smoking, because they can worsen these symptoms.

        • Letrozole (Femara) can weaken your bones, which makes it easier to break. Ask your oncology care team if you need to take calcium or vitamin D while taking letrozole (Femara) to strengthen your bones.

          • Letrozole (Femara) can raise cholesterol levels in the blood. If your cholesterol gets too high, it can lead to serious heart disease. Your oncologist might routinely check your cholesterol levels to make sure that they're within safe range.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Letrozole (Femara)

            Is letrozole (Femara) chemotherapy?
            No, letrozole (Femara) isn’t chemotherapy. Rather, it’s a type of hormonal therapy called an aromatase inhibitor. It works by blocking production of estrogen, a hormone that some breast cancer cells need to grow. In doing so, letrozole (Femara) prevents tumors needing estrogen from spreading. Your oncology care team might consider letrozole (Femara) as part of breast cancer treatment plans that also include other treatment options, like surgery, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy.
            What does letrozole (Femara) do for fertility?
            Letrozole (Femara) isn’t FDA-approved for fertility. But the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lists letrozole (Femara) as an off-label option for fertility treatment in females who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Many people who have PCOS don’t ovulate regularly, which can make it difficult to get pregnant. Letrozole (Femara) can help stimulate ovulation to raise the likelihood of pregnancy.
            What are the worst side effects of letrozole (Femara)?
            Not everyone will have the same side effect experience with letrozole (Femara), so the "worst side effects" might differ from person to person. Research shows that the most common side effect that causes people to stop taking letrozole (Femara) or other aromatase inhibitors is muscle or joint pain. If you experience joint or muscle pain while taking letrozole (Femara), ask your healthcare team whether you can try taking OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help with your symptoms. It’s also a good idea to let your oncologist know if letrozole (Femara) side effects are disrupting your daily routine. They might recommend other treatments to help relieve your symptoms.
            What are the long-term side effects of letrozole (Femara)?
            Some long-term side effects of letrozole (Femara) include high cholesterol and weakened bones. Your oncologist will check your cholesterol levels before you start letrozole (Femara) and periodically during treatment to make sure your level is within a safe range. If needed, your healthcare team might recommend you start a cholesterol-lowering medication because having high cholesterol levels over time can raise the risk for heart attacks or strokes. In addition, your healthcare team might also order tests or scans to check your bone strength before you start treatment and while you’re taking letrozole (Femara). This is because over time, taking letrozole (Femara) can lead to weakened bones, raising your risk for bone fractures. If needed, your care team might also recommend a calcium and vitamin D supplement, or other medications for bone health while you’re taking letrozole (Femara).
            Can you drink alcohol while taking letrozole (Femara)?
            Ask your oncology team whether you can drink alcohol while taking letrozole (Femara). While letrozole (Femara) isn’t known to have any direct interactions with alcohol, your care team might recommend that you avoid drinking while receiving treatment. This is because alcohol might worsen some letrozole (Femara) side effects, like dizziness, tiredness, and hot flashes. Also, drinking large amounts of alcohol can raise the risk of liver problems, which can make it more difficult for your body to process letrozole (Femara) and also put you at higher risk for side effects.
            Does letrozole (Femara) cause hair loss?
            Letrozole (Femara) can cause hair thinning, but it’s unlikely to cause complete hair loss. It’s important to remember that other cancer treatments you’ve taken before starting letrozole (Femara) or during letrozole (Femara) treatment could also affect your hair. Talk with your oncologist if you’ve concerns about hair loss with cancer treatment. They can provide hair care tips and resources for free or low-cost wigs.
            Does letrozole (Femara) cause weight gain?
            Letrozole (Femara) can cause weight changes, but the specific change can vary from person to person. In studies, some people taking letrozole (Femara) reported gaining weight, but others reported losing weight. Daily exercise and a healthy diet can help you manage your weight during cancer treatment. If you’ve concerns about weight changes with letrozole (Femara) treatment, let your care team know so they can make recommendations to help.
            Does letrozole (Femara) make you tired?
            Letrozole (Femara) can cause tiredness as a side effect. For this reason, use caution when driving or engaging in activities that require intense focus until you know how the medication affects you. If you do become tired after your letrozole (Femara) dose, you can also try taking the dose at bedtime. Talk with your oncologist if fatigue with letrozole (Femara) treatment’s disrupting your daily routine.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Letrozole (Femara)?

            Letrozole (Femara) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Weakened bones

            - Risk factors: Ages 65 years and older
            Taking letrozole (Femara) for longer periods of time (2 years or longer) can lower bone mineral density (BMD), raising the risk for fractures. This risk is higher if you take letrozole (Femara) or other medications that can lower BMD for a long time, or if you have other factors that raise your risk for brittle bones (osteoporosis). Before starting treatment, your provider will likely have you do a scan to check on your bones, and repeat those scans every couple years during treatment. They might also recommend medications to prevent bone loss, such as zoledronic acid (Zometa) or denosumab (Xgeva).

            risk-warning

            High cholesterol levels

            One of the more common side effects of letrozole (Femara) is higher levels of cholesterol in the blood. Over time, this can raise the risk for heart attacks and strokes. To lower this risk, your oncology care team will help you plan nutritious meals and exercise routines that you can do regularly. Your oncologist will check on your cholesterol levels before you start letrozole (Femara) and periodically during treatment. If they notice your cholesterol levels rising, they might have you start medications to lower your cholesterol levels.

            risk-warning

            Liver problems

            • Risk factors: Severe liver disease and liver dysfunction

              The liver is responsible for breaking down letrozole (Femara) in your body. If there is a problem with your liver, it can lead to high levels of letrozole (Femara) in your body and raise your risk of side effects. Let your oncology care team know if you have an existing liver problem, because your oncologist might have to lower your dose of letrozole (Femara).

              risk-warning

              Risk of drowsiness

              Letrozole (Femara) can cause sleepiness, which can lower your ability to think, react, and focus. Your risk might be higher if you're taking other medications that can cause you to feel sleepy (e.g., benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, sleep medications). Make sure you know how this medication affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require your concentration. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you feel too sleepy from taking letrozole (Femara).

              risk-warning

              Harm to unborn baby

              It's unlikely that pregnancy can happen after menopause, but if you think you could be pregnant, let your oncology care team know. Letrozole (Femara) can cause harm to an unborn baby. If there's a chance that you still have the ability to get pregnant, use an effective birth control while taking letrozole (Femara) and for at least 3 weeks after your last dose.

              dosage

              Letrozole (Femara) dosage forms

              The average cost for 10 tablets of 2.5mg of Letrozole (Femara) is $8.82 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 91.66% off the average retail price of $105.80.
              tablet
              Tablet
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              2.5mg10 tablets$8.82$0.88

              Typical dosing for Letrozole (Femara)

              The typical dose is 2.5 mg by mouth daily. Your oncology care team will determine how long your treatment should last.

              Your oncologist might lower your dose if you have a history of liver problems.

              interactions

              Interactions between Letrozole (Femara) and other drugs

              Letrozole (Femara) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Letrozole (Femara). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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              How much does Letrozole (Femara) cost?

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              alternatives

              What are alternatives to Letrozole (Femara)?

              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Letrozole (Femara). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
              Letrozole (Femara)
              Used for:
              $8.82 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Used for:
              • Early stage HR+ breast cancer in postmenopausal women

              • Advanced or metastatic HR+ breast cancer in postmenopausal women

              • Advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women that's getting worse after treatment with tamoxifen

              $10.07 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Used for:
              • Early breast cancer in postmenopausal women who've had 2 to 3 years of treatment with tamoxifen

              • Advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women whose cancer has worsened following treatment with tamoxifen

              $16.20 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              latest news

              What is the latest news about Letrozole (Femara)?

              images

              Letrozole (Femara) images

              Yellow Round Teva And B1 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "B1" And "Teva".Yellow Round Teva And B1 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Pink Round M And L71 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "M" And "L71".Pink Round M And L71 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round Lt - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Lt".Yellow Round Lt - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "121" And "Yl".Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "121" And "Yl".Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "121" And "Yl".Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round L And N - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "N" And "L".Yellow Round L And N - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round L And N - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "N" And "L".Yellow Round L And N - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round Apo And Let 2.5 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Let 2.5" And "Apo".Yellow Round Apo And Let 2.5 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "121" And "Yl".Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "121" And "Yl".Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 511 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "511".Yellow Round 511 - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet
              This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "121" And "Yl".Yellow Round 121 And Yl - Letrozole 2.5mg Tablet

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              References

              Best studies we found

              Accord Healthcare, Inc. (2024). Letrozole tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

              American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Hair loss.

              American Cancer Society. (2024). Hormone therapy for breast cancer.

              View All References (6)

              American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018). ACOG Committee Opinion No. 738 summary: Aromatase inhibitors in gynecologic practice. Obstetrics and Gynecology.

              Chan, H. J., et al. (2016). Structural and functional characterization of aromatase, estrogen receptor, and their genes in endocrine-responsive and -resistant breast cancer cells. The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

              Henry, N. L., et al. (2012). Predictors of aromatase inhibitor discontinuation as a result of treatment-emergent symptoms in early-stage breast cancer. Journal of Clinical Oncology.

              Karatas, F., et al. (2016). Management of hair loss associated with endocrine therapy in patients with breast cancer: An overview. SpringerPlus.

              National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Advanced cancer.

              National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Metastatic.

              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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