Estrogen is important for many bodily processes. But in some situations, it’s necessary to block estrogen production, particularly when treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Aromatase inhibitors are a frequently prescribed type of medication that lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women with this type of cancer.
These drugs can cause a range of side effects that can negatively affect your quality of life. It is important to understand the potential estrogen blocker side effects before beginning treatment.
This article will explore the most common side effects of estrogen blockers, focusing on aromatase inhibitors, and discuss ways to manage them.
Aromatase Inhibitors: How They Work and Who Uses Them
How Aromatase Inhibitors Work
Aromatase inhibitors work by blocking aromatase, an enzyme that changes androgens into estrogen, unlike DHT blockers which target a different process. When the enzyme is blocked, less estrogen is produced. This can help to keep hormone-sensitive cancer cells from growing.
Who Gets Aromatase Inhibitors?
Aromatase inhibitors are usually prescribed for postmenopausal women who have hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, a different condition from stage 4 prostate cancer. Premenopausal women may take aromatase inhibitors along with ovarian suppression therapy.
How Long Do You Take an Aromatase Inhibitor?
How long you’ll need to take the medication depends on the stage of your cancer, whether you’ve had other treatments like tamoxifen, and other factors that are specific to you. It’s not unusual to take aromatase inhibitors for several years.
Common side effects of aromatase inhibitors
Like any medication, including finasteride, aromatase inhibitors can cause side effects.
Joint and muscle pain (arthralgia and myalgia)
If you take aromatase inhibitors, you may have joint pain. In fact, joint pain is a very common side effect, occurring in almost half of women who take these medications. Some patients also report pain in their muscles. These aches and pains can affect your ability to perform everyday tasks and may decrease your overall quality of life.
Bone health and osteoporosis
Aromatase inhibitors can cause you to lose bone density, raising your risk of developing osteoporosis and experiencing bone fractures. If you’re on these medications, it’s important for your healthcare team to monitor your bone density. You may need to take bone-strengthening medications.
Menopausal symptoms
Aromatase inhibitors can either cause menopause to begin or make existing menopausal symptoms worse. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
MANAGING SIDE EFFECTS
Dealing with the side effects of estrogen blockers can be tricky, but there are strategies you can use to feel better.
Addressing Joint and Muscle Pain
Talk with your doctor about the pain you’re experiencing. They may suggest anti-inflammatory drugs, exercise, or even acupuncture.
You can also try low-impact activities like walking, stretching, and yoga to ease the pain.
Maintaining Bone Health
It’s important to keep an eye on your bone density while you’re taking estrogen blockers. Talk to your doctor about bone-strengthening medications like bisphosphonates or denosumab.
Weight-bearing exercises, like walking or lifting weights, can also help strengthen your bones. Make sure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D through your diet or supplements. And definitely avoid smoking, as it can lead to bone loss.
Alleviating Menopausal Symptoms
If you’re dealing with bothersome hot flashes and night sweats, talk to your doctor about treatments like medication or lifestyle changes.
For vaginal dryness, chat with your healthcare team about using vaginal moisturizers or lubricants.
Other considerations
It’s important to note that aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen, another type of estrogen blocker, don’t have exactly the same side effects.
For example, tamoxifen can raise your risk of blood clots and uterine cancer, but aromatase inhibitors do not.
Researchers are still learning about the long-term effects of aromatase inhibitors. If you’re taking one of these medications, it’s essential to keep in close contact with your healthcare team and let them know if you notice any new or worsening side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can you stay on estrogen blockers?
The duration of estrogen blocker treatment varies based on individual circumstances and the specific medication. Your doctor will determine the appropriate length of treatment based on your health history, cancer type, and response to the medication. Typically, hormone therapy for breast cancer may last for five to ten years.
Which has worse side effects, tamoxifen or anastrozole?
Both tamoxifen and anastrozole have potential side effects, but they differ. Tamoxifen may cause hot flashes, vaginal discharge, and a slightly increased risk of blood clots and uterine cancer. Anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, is more likely to cause joint pain, bone thinning, and vaginal dryness. The “worse” side effects depend on the individual and their tolerance.
How do I get rid of tamoxifen belly?
“Tamoxifen belly,” or abdominal weight gain, can be challenging. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, combined with regular exercise (including cardiovascular and strength training), can help manage weight. Talk with your doctor about strategies to manage side effects.
Does lack of estrogen make you fat?
Estrogen plays a role in metabolism and fat distribution. A lack of estrogen, such as during menopause or with estrogen-blocking medications, can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. However, weight gain is multifactorial and also influenced by diet, exercise, genetics, and overall health.
Does estrogen blocker cause weight gain?
Yes, estrogen blockers can contribute to weight gain in some individuals. This is thought to be due to the hormonal changes and metabolic shifts that occur when estrogen levels are reduced. Managing weight during estrogen blocker treatment often involves a combination of diet and exercise.
In Summary
Aromatase inhibitors can be an important tool in the fight against hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. However, the side effects can be tough to manage.
It’s important to talk to your healthcare team about the side effects you’re experiencing. They can help you monitor your symptoms, adjust your lifestyle, and maintain your quality of life while you’re on this medication.