A 31-year-old member asked:
How does arimidex (anastrozole) work?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Quang Nguyenanswered
Specializes in Endocrinology
Lower estrogen: It's an aromatase inhibitor. It blocks the enzymatic conversion of androgens (male hormone) to estrogen, thereby lowering estrogen level. It is used to treat breast cancer.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Lauren Stegmananswered
Radiation Oncology 28 years experience
Lowers Estrogen: Arimidex (anastrozole) blocks the production of estrogen by the ovaries, fat cells, and adrenal glands. It thereby lowers the estrogen level in the body. Some breast cancer cells have estrogen receptors. Estrogen spurs these cells to grow, so lowering the amount of it around "staves" the bad cells of their signal to grow. This causes some cells to peter out and die and other's growth to slow down.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 25, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.