Aromek Film Coated Tablets (30's and 2.5mg Tablets

Letrozole is used to treat hormone-dependent breast cancer and to help stop it coming back. It is mainly used in women who have been through the menopause.

It works by lowering the amount of oestrogen the body makes, which slows the growth of cancers that need oestrogen. It is sometimes also used in fertility treatment by specialists.

Take it exactly as your doctor tells you, usually once a day at about the same time.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew it.
• You can take it with or without food.
• Treatment usually lasts several years.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is due soon; then skip it. Never take two doses together.
• Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor.

Common side effects, which often ease after a few months, include:

• hot flushes, sweating and poor sleep
• tiredness and low mood
• feeling or being sick, or loss of appetite
• mild muscle, bone or joint aches
• hair thinning
• vaginal bleeding in the first few weeks

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• pain, swelling, warmth or redness in an arm or leg
• yellow skin or eyes, fever, frequent mouth ulcers or blurred vision
• sudden weakness, numbness, a drooping face or trouble speaking
• sudden severe chest pain
• swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing

Tell your doctor before taking it if you:

• have had an allergic reaction to letrozole or any other medicine
• still have periods
• have serious kidney or liver disease
• have osteoporosis (thin, fragile bones)
• take HRT or other medicines or herbal remedies for menopause symptoms, as these can stop letrozole working

Your doctor will check your blood pressure, cholesterol and bone density during treatment.

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: it is not recommended in pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it affects hormones. Contact your doctor urgently if you could be pregnant.

Driving: if you feel tired, dizzy or have blurred vision, do not drive or use machines.

Bones: it can weaken bones over time. Exercise and a healthy diet can help.