Letrozole: What it is and who uses it

Letrozole is a prescription drug most often used to treat hormone-receptor positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It blocks an enzyme (aromatase) that makes estrogen, so tumors that need estrogen to grow can slow down. Doctors also use it off-label to help some women with ovulation problems become pregnant. If you’re reading about letrozole, you probably want clear, practical facts — here they are.

How letrozole works and typical dosing

Letrozole lowers the body’s estrogen level by stopping aromatase. For breast cancer, the common dose is 2.5 mg once a day, taken the same time each day. For ovulation induction, a typical regimen is 2.5 mg once daily for five days (often days 3–7 of the cycle), but your doctor may change the dose depending on how you respond. Always follow the exact schedule your clinician gives you.

Take letrozole by mouth with or without food. Don’t double a missed dose; if you miss one, take it when you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Stopping suddenly without talking to your provider can affect treatment outcomes, so check with them before making changes.

Side effects, safety checks, and interactions

Common side effects include hot flashes, joint or muscle pain, fatigue, and mild nausea. Because letrozole lowers estrogen long-term use can reduce bone density and raise cholesterol for some people. Your doctor will likely order a bone density scan (DEXA) and check blood lipids before and during treatment.

Avoid pregnancy while on letrozole — it can harm a fetus. Use effective contraception and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant or plan to. Letrozole can interact with other medicines processed by the liver. Bring a full list of prescriptions, OTC drugs, and supplements to your visits so your provider can check for interactions.

If you notice sudden severe joint pain, unexplained bone pain, new shortness of breath, signs of a blood clot (swelling, pain, redness in a leg), or allergic reactions, call your healthcare provider promptly.

Worried about where to buy letrozole? Only fill prescriptions at licensed pharmacies. Be careful with unverified online sellers. Look for a pharmacy license, secure payment, clear contact info, and positive reviews. Your pharmacist can confirm you’re getting the right product and dose.

Want a quick checklist before starting letrozole: confirm the diagnosis and reason for treatment, ask about bone-sparing strategies (calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise), review other meds, arrange baseline blood tests, and schedule follow-up visits. Talk openly with your provider about side effect management — small changes often help a lot.

Have specific concerns or symptoms? Ask your doctor — they’ll give personalized advice based on your health history and treatment plan.