- Active substance: Letrozole
- Manufacturer: Cipla
- Unit: 10tabs (2.50mg/tab) FemproActive substance: LetrozoleOther names: Femara, LetrozolActive half-life: 2 days
Letrozole is a potent anti-estrogen belonging to the Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) class. Its strength can sometimes be overwhelming when used off-label. Although it is primarily prescribed for breast cancer treatment, it has become popular among anabolic steroid users. Letrozole is frequently utilized by these users to mitigate potential estrogen-related side effects.
Effects of Letrozole:As an anti-estrogen, Letrozole provides significant benefits for breast cancer patients, many of whom have cancers that thrive on estrogen. By inhibiting estrogen production and reducing circulating estrogen in the body, Letrozole can effectively hinder cancer progression.
In the context of anabolic steroid use, the anti-estrogenic properties of Letrozole are highly advantageous. Certain anabolic steroids can elevate estrogen levels through their interaction with the aromatase enzyme, which can result in gynecomastia and excessive water retention. Severe water retention can also lead to elevated blood pressure.
Incorporating Letrozole into a cycle involving aromatizing anabolic steroids can mitigate these estrogen-related side effects, safeguarding individuals from gynecomastia and water retention. Additionally, while many steroids can induce high blood pressure independent of aromatization, using an AI like Letrozole can enhance the likelihood of avoiding issues when water retention is at fault. Excessive water retention is typically the primary contributor to high blood pressure among steroid users.
Undoubtedly, AIs such as Letrozole are highly effective in addressing estrogen-related side effects. However, they can adversely affect cholesterol levels. While AIs alone do not significantly harm cholesterol, their impact can worsen when combined with aromatizing steroids like testosterone. Thus, many prefer SERM options like Tamoxifen Citrate (Nolvadex) as a first-line protection against estrogen-related issues.
Letrozole’s capacity to stimulate natural testosterone production makes it an attractive option for Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) plans, and it can also be suitable for treating low testosterone, although it may not suffice on its own. While Letrozole is effective for PCT, it is generally not the preferred choice. The main goal of PCT is to stimulate natural testosterone production, which Letrozole can achieve, but it also involves normalizing hormone levels—something that may be complicated by significantly reduced estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a crucial role in boosting the immune system and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. For anabolic steroid users, utilizing SERMs is more optimal for their natural testosterone production needs during PCT.
Side effects:Headaches, weakness, fatigue, hot flashes, high blood pressure, joint pain, depression, decreased bone mineral content, and negative impact on cholesterol levels.How to use:Anabolic steroid users typically require lower doses of Letrozole. Even when using steroids, a 2.5mg dose is often too strong and can lead to fatigue—an almost guaranteed outcome. This higher dose may be justified only to address early signs of gynecomastia. If symptoms appear, a dose of 2.5mg per day for 7-14 days can neutralize them. After symptoms subside, individuals can taper down to a more manageable dose for the remainder of their cycle. If the symptoms persist, surgical intervention might be the only solution for gynecomastia. For general estrogen prevention, most men find that 0.5-1mg every other day is sufficient. When using Letrozole as part of low testosterone treatment, even lower doses may be effective. Competitive bodybuilders may opt for a higher dose of 1mg per day in the last 7-14 days before a show to enhance dryness and definition, although this dose is not advisable for long-term use due to its potential harshness.
In breast cancer treatment, the standard dose of Letrozole is typically 2.5mg per day. This potent dosage is usually maintained until the cancer is in remission. Often, once remission is achieved, the treatment shifts from Letrozole to Nolvadex as part of a preventive regimen.