Why are aromatase inhibitor drugs used in aromatase inhibitor therapy?

Aromatase is an enzyme that helps the body make oestrogen from other hormones, especially after the ovaries have stopped producing most oestrogen. Aromatase inhibitors reduce this conversion. When a cancer depends on oestrogen signals, lowering that signal can slow the activity of hormone-sensitive cells. The treatment is different from chemotherapy because it changes a growth signal rather than directly attacking rapidly dividing cells. Its usefulness depends on hormone-receptor testing, menopausal status and the wider treatment plan.

Take the medicine on the schedule prescribed and discuss missed doses rather than doubling up. Tell the team about joint or muscle aches, hot flushes, sleep changes, low mood, vaginal symptoms or reduced ability to exercise. The clinician may review bone health, cholesterol, other medicines and ways to support movement. Do not stop treatment because of side effects without advice; a change in timing, supportive care or another option may help.

Contact your treatment team about severe or persistent pain, a new fall, loss of strength, unusual swelling, chest pain, sudden breathlessness or symptoms that make daily activities difficult. Seek urgent help for severe chest pain, major breathing difficulty or a suspected fracture. Report new vaginal bleeding after menopause promptly so it can be assessed rather than assumed to be a medicine effect.

Is my cancer hormone-receptor positive? How long is this treatment intended to continue? Should I have bone-density or other monitoring? Which exercises and symptom treatments are suitable, and what should I do after a missed dose?