Letrozole is a medicinal drug, which is a nonsteroidal inhibitor of estrogen synthesis that shows antineoplastic activity. It acts as an aromatase inhibitor and selectively inhibits aromatase. It also leads to the growth inhibition of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells. A cytochrome P-450 enzyme located in the endoplasmic reticulum of the cell and present in various tissues called Aromatase. It is also present in the premenopausal ovary, liver, and breast, catalyzes the aromatization of androstenedione and testosterone into estrone and estradiol. It is available in the form of a conventional tablet.

Class of Drugs – Aromatase Inhibitor

Molecular Formula – C₁₇H₁₁N₅

Molecular Weight – 285.3 g/mol

Working: Given active component is the aromatase inhibitor, which is an anti-estrogen drug that is indicated for treating postmenopausal women with breast cancer. Growth of breast cancers in postmenopausal women is triggered by estrogens that circulate in the blood, and the adrenal glands are the major source of circulating estrogens. Letrozole blocks the enzyme in the adrenal glands that forms the estrogens, estradiol and estrone.

Uses: It treats certain types of breast cancer, for instance, hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in women after menopause. Letrozole is also approved to prevent cancer from returning. Breast cancer is made to grow faster by a natural hormone called estrogen. This active component decreases the amount of estrogen the body produces and helps to slow or reverse the growth of these breast cancers.

Popular Brands and Dosages: This active ingredient is used in popular brand medicine as mentioned below:

• Femara: 2.5 mg

This drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, a pregnant woman should not handle this handle these tablets.