Fertility Medications

Letrozole (Femara)

Dosage: 2.5 mg tablets

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 ovary 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. 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. As a result your physician may ask you to obtain an ultrasound or day 20 to 24 progesterone levels to confirm ovulation.

Side effects:

Minimal, expect same or lower multiple pregnancy rate as is seen with Clomid.

Directions on use:

One to two tablets are to be taken beginning on cycle day 3 to 5 for 5 days total. You may be asked to come in for ultrasound or serum progesterone on day 20 to 24 of your cycle to confirm ovulation.