From the FDA Drug Label
The growth of many cancers of the breast is stimulated or maintained by estrogens. In postmenopausal women, estrogens are mainly derived from the action of the aromatase enzyme, which converts adrenal androgens (primarily androstenedione and testosterone) to estrone and estradiol The suppression of estrogen biosynthesis in peripheral tissues and in the cancer tissue itself can therefore be achieved by specifically inhibiting the aromatase enzyme. Anastrozole is a selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor. It significantly lowers serum estradiol concentrations and has no detectable effect on formation of adrenal corticosteroids or aldosterone.
The treatment for estrogen dominance may involve the use of aromatase inhibitors such as anastrozole to lower serum estradiol concentrations.
- Anastrozole is a selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor that significantly lowers serum estradiol concentrations.
- It has no detectable effect on the formation of adrenal corticosteroids or aldosterone.
- The recommended daily dose of anastrozole is 1 mg, which reduces estradiol by approximately 70% within 24 hours and by approximately 80% after 14 days of daily dosing 1.
Alternatively, progesterone therapy may also be used to treat estrogen dominance by counterbalancing the effects of excess estrogen.
- Progesterone has been shown to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia in women taking estrogen therapy 2.
- It can also induce secretory changes in the endometrium, which can help to reduce the risk of estrogen-dominated conditions.
From the Research
Treatment for estrogen dominance typically involves lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and sometimes medication, with the goal of reducing estrogen production, improving estrogen metabolism, or blocking estrogen's effects on receptors. To address estrogen dominance, it's essential to start by reducing exposure to environmental estrogens by avoiding plastics containing BPA, choosing organic foods when possible, and using natural cleaning products 3. Dietary changes should include increasing fiber intake to 25-35 grams daily, consuming cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, and adding ground flaxseeds to your diet, as these help eliminate excess estrogen through the digestive tract. Regular exercise, stress management through meditation or yoga, and ensuring 7-8 hours of quality sleep are also important.
Some key considerations for treatment include:
- Reducing exposure to environmental estrogens
- Increasing fiber intake and consuming specific vegetables to aid in estrogen elimination
- Using supplements such as DIM (diindolylmethane) at 100-200mg daily, calcium D-glucarate at 500-1000mg daily, and magnesium at 300-400mg daily
- Considering bioidentical progesterone cream for some women to balance hormones
- In more severe cases, healthcare providers might prescribe medications like aromatase inhibitors or selective estrogen receptor modulators, as seen in studies such as 4, which discusses the use of clomiphene citrate and anastrozole for male hypoandrogenism.
It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment, as they can determine if you truly have estrogen dominance through hormone testing and tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs, taking into account the complex interplay of hormones and individual health status, as discussed in 3 and 5.