Letrozole
Uses, side effects, interactions and warnings
Letrozole is a prescription tablet originally used for breast cancer. Fertility specialists commonly use it off-label to help women with PCOS ovulate, and it often works better than clomiphene for them. It is taken for 5 days early in the cycle, with scans to track egg development.
What is letrozole used for?
- Ovulation induction in women with PCOS (off-label)
- Hormone-sensitive breast cancer after menopause
How does letrozole work?
Letrozole blocks the enzyme aromatase, which lowers oestrogen for a few days. The brain responds by releasing more FSH, which stimulates the ovary to develop and release an egg.
How is letrozole taken?
For fertility, it is usually taken once a day for 5 days starting on day 2 to 5 of the period. Your doctor will decide the dose and may arrange ultrasound scans to check egg growth. Cancer treatment uses a different, long-term schedule.
What are the side effects of letrozole?
- Hot flushes
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Joint aches
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Signs of an ectopic pregnancy
- Severe allergic reaction
Which medicines interact with letrozole?
Who should be careful with letrozole?
Letrozole must not be taken once you are pregnant, so a pregnancy test is usually done before each cycle. Tell your doctor about liver disease or osteoporosis. Long-term use can thin the bones.
Frequently asked questions
Is letrozole better than clomiphene for PCOS?
For many women with PCOS, letrozole leads to more ovulation and live births than clomiphene. Your specialist will advise.
Does letrozole cause twins?
The chance of twins is lower than with clomiphene but still slightly above natural conception.
When will I ovulate after letrozole?
Usually around 5 to 10 days after the last tablet. Scans or ovulation kits help with timing.
This information does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. SexologistIndia.com does not sell medicines.