Letrozole (Femara) Fertility Medication

How it works:

It is classified as an aromatase inhibitor which means it reduces the formation of estradiol from testosterone. As a result your pituitary will release more FSH and LH to stimulate the ovaries to make follicles and ovulate. It is now a relatively new treatment for breast cancer. It is being used off label to induce or augment ovulation, though it is NOT FDA approved for ovulation induction. It is also used in combination with FSH to augment or increase your ovary’s response to this medication. It is common to see a markedly reduced estradiol level despite good follicle development on ultrasound. Your physician may ask you to obtain an ultrasound on day 12 of treatment.

Side effects:

Minimal; mild headache, expect same or lower multiple pregnancy rate as is seen with Clomid. Letrozole is rapidly eliminated from the bloodstream.

Directions on use:

Two to three tablets are to be taken beginning on cycle day 3 to 5 for 5 days. You may be asked to come in for ultrasound on day 12 or serum progesterone on day 20 to 24 of your cycle to confirm ovulation. We often assist with ovulation by giving you an injection of Ovidrel on day 12.