Is aromatase inhibitor therapy done with aromatase inhibitor drugs?

Aromatase inhibitor therapy is a treatment approach, while the aromatase inhibitor drug is the medicine that delivers it. These drugs reduce the conversion of other hormones into oestrogen in the body. This can slow or control hormone-sensitive cancer cells when the treatment matches the tumour's biology.

The drug is usually taken by mouth according to an oncology prescription. The selected medicine and treatment schedule depend on your diagnosis, previous treatments, other health conditions, and whether you have reached menopause. The plan may be used alone or alongside another part of cancer care.

Take the prescribed tablet at the same time each day unless your team gives different instructions. Tell your team about joint or muscle pain, hot flushes, sleep changes, vaginal dryness, or low mood; these effects can sometimes be managed without abandoning treatment. Do not stop suddenly or switch between drugs without discussing it.

Keep appointments that monitor your response and general health. Ask whether you need attention to bone health, physical activity, or other medicines that could affect your treatment.

Contact your cancer team if side effects interfere with walking, sleep, work, or daily activities, or if you miss doses because of them. Seek urgent help for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, one-sided weakness, or a painful swollen leg. These symptoms need prompt assessment rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

Why is an aromatase inhibitor suitable for my cancer? Which drug and schedule will I use? How should I manage joint symptoms or hot flushes? Should my bone health be checked, and what should I do if I miss a tablet?