Among the hormonal treatments for breast cancer, aromatase inhibitors are obtaining very significant positive results. Do you know what these inhibitors consist of and what side effects they generate? Below, we show you this innovative therapy.
Hormonal treatments: what are aromatase inhibitors and what are they for?
An aromatase inhibitor is a drug that prevents the creation of estradiol, a female hormone developed by the enzyme it interferes with. These blockers are used in hormone therapy for women with breast cancer and are applied to tumors that include hormone receptor-positive receptors. Additionally, it decreases the risk of suffering from it among postmenopausal women.
You should know that, currently, the use of aromatase inhibitors is a reference treatment for the prevention of this type of breast cancer. These inhibitors are considered at the same level as tamoxifen and raloxifene. In fact, they are used as an alternative for those who have a higher risk of blood clots and therefore cannot take them.
How do aromatase blockers work?
Hormone receptor-positive tumors are stimulated by the body’s estrogens. Its action generates the uncontrolled reaction of cancer cells, by which they divide massively. Consequently, the cancer develops and survives with greater virulence.
The female body naturally produces estrogen, especially in the ovaries. When these no longer function – after menopause or for any other reason – they are generated in adipose tissue. They arise from the binding of androgens with the enzyme aromatase.
This binding, in particular, is what inhibitors prevent, since estrogen is not formed. By acting against it, minimizing its existence, they prevent its stimulating influence on tumor growth.
The usual dosage for this breast cancer preventive function is daily intake for five years; sometimes up to ten. It is often applied as adjuvant therapy after surgery because it helps to prevent the tumor from returning.
When the disease is advanced, combining hormonal therapy with chemotherapy is the best decision. This is indicated when the cancer has recurred after treatment or has spread metastatically.
What inhibitors are available?
There are two classes of aromatase blockers:
- Steroids. They bind to aromatase irreversibly, so estrogen inhibition is long-lasting. Exemestane (trade name: Aromasin) is the main one.
- Non-steroidal. They are temporarily, not irreversibly, associated with the protein. This is what anastrozole (Arimidex) and letrozole (Femara) do.
What are the side effects of these breast cancer drugs?
Hormonal treatments that inhibit aromatase generate less significant negative consequences than tamoxifen. In this regard, you should know that they do not cause uterine cancers and rarely cause blood clots, mainly.
However, two significant side effects are noted:
- Muscle pain.
- Stiffness and joint pain.
The most widespread perception is a sensation close to arthritis that affects several body areas at the same time. These joint discomforts are therefore often quite uncomfortable.
Another consequence sometimes observed after the application of aromatase inhibitors is bone thinning. Occasionally, it leads to the appearance of osteoporosis and fractures. Bone density tests can establish whether or not it is advisable to take medication to compensate for it.
Also, reactions characteristic of menopause are appreciated. These include hot flashes and hot flashes, vaginal dryness and night sweats. Less common is the increase in cholesterol and risk of heart disease experienced by women with previous coronary heart disease.
How to combat joint pain and discomfort?
Both joint pain and discomfort are the most problematic side effect of aromatase blocker treatments. In fact, in their most severe manifestations, they are the main cause of abandonment of these drugs.
If this is your case, there are natural activities that will help you alleviate these problems. Above all:
- Physiotherapy.
- Massage.
- Acupuncture.
- Physical exercise.
- Care and new postural habits.
- Naturopathic guidelines.
- Healthy eating.
These resources, in any case, must be recommended and supervised by qualified specialists.
The importance of OLIMINA3
In addition to the resources we have mentioned, there is an additional effective solution to prevent and alleviate these pains. Have you heard of OLIMINA3? From Phytogen Medical Foods we offer you this food supplement made with natural ingredients, 100% safe.
Through a clinical study we have demonstrated its suitability to alleviate this kind of discomfort. In fact, its influence has been analyzed in cases of breast cancer patients treated with aromatase inhibitors. Its efficacy has been validated, making it a highly positive supplement to improve the quality of life of these people.
Therefore, if you are undergoing hormonal treatments and suffer from discomfort or joint pain, try OLIMINA3 and you will notice the improvement. You will reduce the negative effect of aromatase inhibitors!
