Taking letrozole: timing, food and daily routine

Letrozole is a small tablet taken by mouth once a day, at the dose your oncologist prescribes. It can be taken with or without food, and at any time of day, but taking it at the same time every day makes it easier to remember and keeps levels steady. Many women link it to a daily habit, such as morning tea, breakfast, brushing teeth or bedtime. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Letrozole stays in the body for several days, so if you miss a single dose, take it when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next one, in which case skip the missed tablet and carry on as normal. Never take two tablets together to make up. Keep tablets in their original pack, at room temperature, away from moisture and out of reach of children. Because treatment usually lasts five years or more, it helps to plan ahead: keep a small spare supply, refill prescriptions before they run out, and pack enough for travel, including festivals and trips to your home town. Tell every doctor, dentist and pharmacist that you take letrozole, and check before starting new medicines, supplements or traditional remedies. Avoid hormone replacement therapy and products containing oestrogen. Letrozole can cause dizziness or tiredness in some women, so take care driving until you know how it affects you. Most importantly, keep taking it every day unless your oncologist advises otherwise.

Once a day, with or without food

Choose a time that fits your routine and stick with it.

Do not double up

If you miss a dose, skip it if the next is due soon.

Plan your supply

Refill early so you never run out, especially before travel.

Taking a tablet every day for years is harder than it sounds, and many women find it challenging at times.

Missing doses is common

Many women miss tablets occasionally, and some drift away from treatment over the years.

Side effects affect motivation

Joint pain or hot flushes can make daily tablets feel like a burden.

Stopping early reduces the benefit

Studies link stopping hormone therapy early with a higher chance of cancer returning.

Help is available

Side effects can often be managed, and switching medicines is sometimes possible.

What this page cannot tell you

It cannot change your prescription. Only your oncologist can adjust or stop treatment.

Staying on letrozole for the full planned time is one of the most helpful things you can do.

Keep regular reviews

Appointments allow side effects, bone health and cholesterol to be checked.

Report side effects early

Early help with joint pain, flushes or low mood makes it easier to continue.

Keep up exercise

Walking, strength exercises and yoga support bones, joints, weight and mood.

Stay with one manufacturer where possible

Changing between generic brands is generally fine, but consistency can reduce confusion.

Talk before stopping

If you want to stop, discuss it first so your team can suggest alternatives.