Aromatase Inhibitors: What They Are, How They Work, and What You Need to Know

When you hear aromatase inhibitors, a class of drugs that stop the body from making estrogen. Also known as estrogen blockers, they’re a key tool in treating hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. These drugs don’t kill cancer cells directly—they starve them. Many breast cancers grow when estrogen is around, so cutting off its supply slows or stops tumor growth.

There are three main aromatase inhibitors, medications that block the enzyme aromatase, which turns androgens into estrogen: letrozole, anastrozole, and exemestane. Each works slightly differently, but all aim for the same goal: lower estrogen levels. Letrozole and anastrozole are non-steroidal and reversible; exemestane is steroidal and permanently disables the enzyme. Your doctor picks one based on your health, past treatments, and side effect tolerance.

These drugs are often used after surgery or chemotherapy, sometimes for five to ten years. They’re not for premenopausal women because their ovaries still make estrogen—other drugs like tamoxifen work better there. Common side effects include joint pain, hot flashes, bone thinning, and fatigue. Some women feel like they’ve aged faster. That’s why bone density scans and calcium supplements often come with the prescription. It’s not just about fighting cancer—it’s about managing life while you do it.

What you won’t find in most brochures are the real-world trade-offs. A woman on anastrozole might skip her morning walk because her knees ache. Another might stop taking her pill for a week because the night sweats are unbearable. These aren’t rare cases—they’re everyday struggles. That’s why posts on this page cover everything from how to handle joint pain with movement and supplements, to what happens when you switch from one inhibitor to another, and why some people respond better than others.

You’ll also find info on how estrogen suppression, the process of lowering estrogen to control cancer growth affects other parts of the body—like mood, memory, and heart health. Some studies show a small increase in cholesterol or risk of heart issues, but the benefits usually outweigh the risks. And if you’re wondering whether generics are safe (like with thyroid or epilepsy drugs), you’ll see how that applies here too.

This isn’t just a list of drugs. It’s a collection of real experiences: how people manage side effects, when they decide to stop or switch, what works for bone health, and how to talk to your doctor when things get tough. Whether you’re just starting treatment or have been on it for years, there’s something here that speaks to your situation.