Other drugs in this category include aminoglutethimide, an oral non-specific aromatase inhibitor, and formestane, an injectable selective inhibitor.
Aromatase inhibitors work by lowering serum estradiol concentrations.
This occurs through blockage of the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for the conversion of adrenally generated androstenedione to estrone and then estradiol. Anastrozole is well absorbed following oral administration. The recommended dosage of anastrozole is 1 mg orally once daily, given with or without food. The most common side effects include hot flushes, vaginal dryness, hair thinning, gastrointestinal disturbances, asthenia, somnolence, headache and rash. Prior to application, the affected areas should be washed thoroughly with a non-medicated soap, rinsed well and patted dry.