The Mechanism of Action of Letrozole

Letrozole is a commonly prescribed medication used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which work by reducing the production of estrogen in the body. Estrogen fuels the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells, and by inhibiting its production, letrozole helps to slow down the progression of the disease.

How does Letrozole work?

Letrozole works by specifically targeting the enzyme aromatase, which plays a key role in the production of estrogen. Aromatase is responsible for converting androgens (male hormones) Letrozol Sandoz Film 2.5mg Mode of action into estrogen (female hormone) in various tissues, including the breast tissue. By inhibiting the action of aromatase, letrozole effectively reduces the levels of estrogen circulating in the body.

Mode of action:

When letrozole is taken orally, it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. Once in the body, letrozole selectively binds to the active site of the aromatase enzyme, blocking its ability to convert androgens into estrogen. This inhibition leads to a significant decrease in the levels of estrogen in the body, which in turn slows down the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells.

By depriving cancer cells of the estrogen they need to grow and multiply, letrozole helps to suppress tumor growth and prevent the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. In addition to its use in the treatment of breast cancer, letrozole is also sometimes prescribed off-label to treat infertility in women with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

In conclusion, the mode of action of letrozole involves the inhibition of the aromatase enzyme, leading to a reduction in estrogen levels and a slowdown in the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells. This targeted approach makes letrozole an effective and important treatment option for individuals battling this type of cancer.