Aromatase Inhibitors Side Effects

Aromatase inhibitors are a class of prescription drugs that reduce estrogen levels in women; they are specifically used to help treat breast and ovarian cancer. Despite their effectiveness, aromatase inhibitors are not for everyone as they present risks for side effects and complications in some patients.

Background

• The three aromatase inhibitors approved for use in the United States are Arimidex, Aromasin and Femara. Though they are separate drugs with different prescribing indications, they result in similar side effects.

Significance

• The most common side effects of aromatase inhibitors occur in at least 10 percent and as many as 37 percent of users, and are similar to those experienced during menopause. These include hot flashes, increased joint pain, insomnia, headaches and fatigue.

Types of Other Side Effects

• Aromatase inhibitors also have the potential to cause a number of other less common, but not dangerous, side effects. Additional side effects include nausea, vomiting, depression, back pain, coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness and occasionally spotting of menstrual blood.

Risks

• Infrequently, use of aromatase inhibitors causes cardiovascular effects like hypertension, stroke and heart attacks. Taking aromatase inhibitors increases your risk for osteoporosis.

Considerations

• Because aromatase inhibitors disrupt fetal development, doctors rarely prescribe the drugs for pregnant women. Due to potential side effects, your doctor is not likely to recommend the drug if you have a history of cardiovascular disease or high cholesterol.