Vorozole

An article about the nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor Vorozole

Vorozole
File:Vorozole.svg
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Vorozole is a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor that is used in the treatment of breast cancer. It functions by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for the conversion of androgens into estrogens. This reduction in estrogen levels is beneficial in treating estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Vorozole works by binding to the aromatase enzyme, thereby preventing it from converting androgens such as testosterone and androstenedione into estrogens. This leads to a decrease in circulating estrogen levels, which can slow or halt the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors.

Clinical Use

Vorozole is primarily used in the treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It is part of a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which are often used as a first-line treatment or after tamoxifen therapy.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Vorozole include hot flashes, joint pain, and fatigue. As with other aromatase inhibitors, there is also a risk of osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels, which can lead to bone density loss.

Pharmacokinetics

Vorozole is administered orally and is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It has a half-life that allows for once-daily dosing. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the urine.

History

Vorozole was developed as part of a class of drugs aimed at reducing estrogen levels in the body. It was one of the early nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors to be studied for its efficacy in breast cancer treatment.

Related pages

• Aromatase inhibitor
• Breast cancer
• Estrogen receptor
• Tamoxifen