1. AROMATASE INHIBITORS

2. AROMATIZATION

3. INDRODUCTION Aromatization: Aromatase is a enzyme
It converts androgens into estrogen
Aromatase Inhibitors:
Block the production of E

4. CLASSIFICATION OF AIs 2 TYPES 1- IRREVERSIBLE STEROIDAL INHIBITORS:
Exemestane
It forms a permanent and deactivating bond with the aromatase enzyme
2- REVERSIBLE NON-STEROIDAL INHIBITORS:
Anastrozole
Letrozole
Inhibit the synthesis of E via reversible competition for the aromatase enzyme

5. MECHANISM OF ACTION SOURCE OF ESTROGEN: In premenopausal women:
Main source is ovaries
In post-menopausal women:
E is produced in peripheral tissues 

6. AROMATASE & GYNECOMASTIA
Excess aromatization in the presence of high testosterone levels in males: GYNECOMASTIA CLINICAL RELEVANCE: So AIs can be used for the treatment of

7. SIDE EFFECTS OF AIs BONE: Osteoporosis, arthritis, joint & bone pain
Hot flushes
Endometrial cancer:
No increased risk
Thromboembolism:

8. USES OF AIs
Treatment of breast & ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women
Tamoxifen resistant breast carcinoma
Gynecomastia in men