The question "What drug is AI?" is misleading. "AI" in the context of medications refers to Aromatase Inhibitors, which are a type of hormone therapy.
Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) Explained
Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are drugs used primarily to treat or prevent certain types of breast cancer. They work by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body. Estrogen can fuel the growth of some breast cancer cells, so lowering estrogen levels can help stop or slow cancer growth.
How Aromatase Inhibitors Work
Aromatase is an enzyme in the body responsible for producing estrogen in postmenopausal women. Aromatase inhibitors block this enzyme, thereby reducing estrogen production.
Uses of Aromatase Inhibitors
- Treatment of Certain Breast Cancers: AI drugs can be used to treat some types of breast cancer or to prevent it from recurring.
- Prevention of Breast Cancer: They may also be used to help prevent breast cancer in some women at high risk of developing the disease.
Examples of Aromatase Inhibitors
| Drug Name | Type |
|---|---|
| Anastrozole | Aromatase Inhibitor |
| Letrozole | Aromatase Inhibitor |
| Exemestane | Aromatase Inhibitor |
Therefore, rather than being a drug, "AI" refers to a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors. These drugs are a form of hormone therapy targeting estrogen production to treat or prevent breast cancer.
