Side Effects of Femara: A Comprehensive Guide on Identification and Management
Femara, a brand-name oral tablet, is prescribed for certain types of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. However, it is essential to understand that Femara is not safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The medication can harm the unborn baby and should not be used if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. If pregnancy occurs during treatment, immediate medical advice is required. Women who can get pregnant are usually given pregnancy tests before starting Femara and advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose.
Breastfeeding while on Femara is also unsafe, as the drug passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby.
Femara works by decreasing estrogen levels, which can lead to bone thinning or osteoporosis. This serious side effect may require bone density monitoring. Common side effects unrelated to pregnancy include hot flushes, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and bloating.
In some cases, Femara may be used off-label for fertility stimulation to induce ovulation, but only under strict medical supervision, with dose adjustments, and monitoring to minimize risks.
If you're concerned about Femara's potential effects on your bone density or have any questions, it's crucial to discuss them with your doctor. If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, itching, flushing, swelling under your skin, swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe, seek immediate medical attention.
Remember, it's always essential to discuss any new medications with your doctor or pharmacist, especially when taking them alongside other medications like Femara. If you have osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe medication to help protect your bones during Femara treatment and monitor your bone mineral density during the treatment.
Always consult your doctor for personalised advice and treatment options.
[1] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Femara. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/patient/femara
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Femara (letrozole). https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/femara-letrozole/description/drg-20073185
[3] Drugs.com. (2021). Femara. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/femara.html
[4] Breastcancer.org. (2021). Femara (letrozole). https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/hormonal/ar-targeted/femara
- Femara, when used for certain types of breast cancer in postmenopausal women, should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding because it can harm the unborn baby and nursing baby, respectively.
- Women who can get pregnant are usually given pregnancy tests before starting Femara and advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose.
- Femara works by decreasing estrogen levels, leading to potential side effects like bone thinning or osteoporosis, which may require bone density monitoring.
- In some cases, Femara may be used off-label for fertility stimulation to induce ovulation, but only under strict medical supervision to minimize risks.
- If you have osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe medication to help protect your bones during Femara treatment and monitor your bone mineral density during the treatment. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.
