Letrozole: What It Does and How to Use It
Letrozole is a pill doctors use mainly for two reasons: treating hormone‑positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women and helping some people with ovulation problems to get pregnant. It works by lowering estrogen levels in the body, which slows the growth of certain tumors and can stimulate ovulation in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
How it's used and typical dosing
For breast cancer the usual dose is 2.5 mg once a day. Take it at the same time each day, with or without food. For fertility treatment, doctors most commonly prescribe letrozole for five days early in the menstrual cycle—doses usually range from 2.5 mg to 5 mg daily, sometimes up to 7.5 mg in special cases. Your doctor will pick the dose and schedule that fits your situation.
Always follow the exact plan your prescriber gives you. Don’t change the dose or stop the medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember that day; don’t double up the next day.
Side effects and safety tips
Common side effects are hot flashes, joint or muscle pain, fatigue, and night sweats. Some people notice mood changes or headaches. Letrozole lowers estrogen long term, and that can reduce bone density. If you’ll be on letrozole for months or years, your doctor may order a bone density test and recommend calcium and vitamin D, plus weight‑bearing exercise.
Important warnings: don’t take letrozole if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can harm a fetus. Use reliable contraception while on the drug and for a time after stopping, as your doctor advises. If you’re trying to get pregnant after fertility treatment, follow your provider’s timeline.
Watch for serious signs like sudden severe joint pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of a blood clot (swelling, redness in a leg). If you get those, seek medical help right away.
Letrozole is processed by the liver, so tell your doctor about any liver problems. Also mention other meds and supplements—some drugs can change how letrozole works. Your pharmacist can check for interactions if you list everything you take.
Thinking about buying letrozole online? Only use pharmacies that require a prescription and show clear licensing information. Look for verified reviews, a physical address, and a pharmacist contact. Avoid sites that sell without a prescription or push unusually low prices—those pills could be fake or unsafe.
Want the best results? Keep all scheduled appointments, get recommended blood tests or scans, and be open with your care team about side effects. Small changes—diet, exercise, calcium and vitamin D—can help manage long‑term risks. When in doubt, call your doctor; it’s better to ask than to guess.
