Letrozole is prescribed as an oral non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor for the treatment of hormonally-responsive breast cancer. Its off-label uses, however, include ovarian stimulation, which has been preferred by some doctors over clomiphene (Clomid) because of the fewer side effects and less chance of multiple gestation. According to several studies, Letrozole may also have a much lower chance of causing congenital malformations and chromosomal abnormalities than Clomiphene, as well. Some studies even suggest that Letrozole can be used effectively to promote spermatogenesis in male patients suffering from certain disorders (Letrozole, 2014).
How Letrozole Works
Often referred to as the “fertility pill,” Letrozole works by helping a woman’s pituitary gland improve the stimulation of developing follicles (eggs) in the ovaries; however, Letrozole cannot help a woman become more fertile if she is already ovulating normally, making the drug most often prescribed to women with an abnormality in their cycle.
Letrozole is prescribed for five days each cycle, usually beginning on day three and continuing till day seven. Of all the women who are treated with Letrozole, 60% to 80% will ovulate normally, while only half of those who ovulate will become pregnant. These results have puzzled doctors for years, but it is suspected that inadequate ovulation may be the main contributing factor causing the fertility problem. It is for this reason that additional tests, such as a hysterosalpingogram or laparoscopy, may be necessary if you are shown to be unresponsive to the treatment after three or four cycles (Clomiphene and Letrozole restore ovulation and correct fertility problems , 2007).
How to Use Letrozole
Letrozole comes in tablet form, with a usual dosage of 2.5 mg to be taken by mouth once a day, with or without food. Take Letrozole exactly by following the directions on your prescription, and be sure to ask a doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand.
In many cases, Letrozole will have to be taken for several years or possibly longer, but even if you start to feel well, continue taking the treatment. Do not stop taking Letrozole without talking to your doctor first (Femara, 2014).
The most common side effects are hot flashes, arthralgia (joint pain), sweating, fatigue, including signs and symptoms of hypoestrogenism. Long term use is also speculated to lead to osteoporosis. However, only 10% to 20% of women taking Letrozole will experience these side effects, and they are minor and temporary in comparison to other drugs of a similar nature. Serious side effects are rarely seen, although a few side effects warrant discussion. Multiple pregnancy is first among these concerns, with a frequency of twins occurring in around 10% of women who conceive. Triplets have a possibility of occurring as often as 1 in 400 births, and quadruplets 1 in 800 (Clomiphene and Letrozole restore ovulation and correct fertility problems , 2007).
References
Clomiphene and Letrozole restore ovulation and correct fertility problems . (2007). Retrieved from Georgia Reproductive Specialists: http://www.ivf.com/clom.html
Femara. (2014). Retrieved from RxList: http://www.rxlist.com/femara-side-effects-drug-center.htm
Letrozole. (2014, September 4). Retrieved from Wikipedia : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Letrozole
