Final answer:
Anastrozole and Exemestane are aromatase inhibitors used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer by reducing estrogen production, which can slow the growth of certain breast cancers. Anastrozole works reversibly, while Exemestane causes permanent inactivation of the aromatase enzyme. Both drugs can cause hot flashes, osteoporosis, and other side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anastrozole and Exemestane are medications used in the treatment of breast cancer, specifically hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. These drugs belong to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which work by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, thereby decreasing the production of estrogen in the body. This is crucial because some breast cancers grow faster in the presence of estrogen.
Anastrozole's mechanism of action involves reversibly binding to the aromatase enzyme and preventing the conversion of androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues. It is used primarily in postmenopausal women for the clinical use of treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Potential toxicities of Anastrozole include hot flashes, joint pain, weakness, and an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures due to the reduction in circulating estrogen levels.
On the other hand, Exemestane works slightly differently as it is a steroidal aromatase inactivator. It binds irreversibly to the active site of the aromatase enzyme, leading to permanent deactivation of the enzyme's capacity to convert androgens to estrogens. Exemestane is used for similar clinical uses as Anastrozole. Its potential toxicities also include hot flashes, fatigue, and osteoporosis, as well as potential cardiovascular risk and possible liver dysfunction.