What is steroidal aromatase inhibitors?

Steroidal aromatase inhibitors are a class of drugs that inhibit the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for the conversion of androgens (such as testosterone) to estrogen. These inhibitors are structurally similar to the hormone testosterone and are therefore considered steroidal.

Steroidal aromatase inhibitors are used primarily to treat hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, as estrogen can stimulate the growth of some breast cancer cells. They can also be used in men to treat conditions such as gynecomastia (breast enlargement) and prostate cancer.

Examples of steroidal aromatase inhibitors include exemestane (Aromasin) and formestane (Lentaron). These drugs are administered orally and work by irreversibly binding to the aromatase enzyme, thus preventing it from converting androgens to estrogen.

Side effects of steroidal aromatase inhibitors can include hot flashes, fatigue, joint pain, and bone loss (osteoporosis) in some individuals. As aromatase inhibitors reduce estrogen levels, they may also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and some studies have shown an increased risk of bone fractures in some patients. Therefore, these drugs are typically reserved for those who are at high risk of developing breast cancer or have already been diagnosed with the disease.