FERTILITY MEDICATIONS
Letrozole (Femara)
Letrozole is now considered the first-line treatment for ovulation induction in women with PCOS, offering excellent results with fewer side effects.
What Is Letrozole?
Letrozole (brand name Femara) is an aromatase inhibitor that was originally developed for breast cancer treatment. It has become one of the most effective and widely used fertility medications for ovulation induction.
How Letrozole Works
Letrozole works by temporarily blocking the enzyme aromatase, which converts androgens to estrogen. This temporary reduction in estrogen signals the brain to release more FSH, stimulating follicle development in the ovaries.
- Taken orally for 5 days early in the menstrual cycle
- Typically prescribed at 2.5-7.5 mg daily
- Promotes development of usually 1-2 mature follicles
- Has a shorter half-life than Clomid, resulting in fewer side effects
Advantages Over Clomid
- Better for PCOS: Studies show higher ovulation and pregnancy rates in PCOS patients
- Thinner Endometrium Risk Reduced: Less likely to thin the uterine lining
- Lower Multiple Pregnancy Rate: Typically stimulates fewer follicles
- Fewer Side Effects: Shorter half-life means medications clear the body faster
Who Benefits from Letrozole?
- Women with PCOS (first-line treatment per ASRM guidelines)
- Women who did not respond well to Clomid
- Couples using medication with timed intercourse or IUI
- Women with unexplained infertility
Success Rates
Letrozole achieves ovulation in approximately 80-85% of PCOS patients, with pregnancy rates of 15-20% per cycle when combined with timed intercourse or IUI.
Take the Next Step
Schedule a consultation with our fertility specialists to discuss your personalized treatment plan.