From the FDA Drug Label
Breast cancer cell growth may be estrogen-dependent. Aromatase is the principal enzyme that converts androgens to estrogens both in pre- and postmenopausal women Exemestane is an irreversible, steroidal aromatase inactivator, structurally related to the natural substrate androstenedione. Exemestane significantly lowers circulating estrogen concentrations in postmenopausal women, but has no detectable effect on adrenal biosynthesis of corticosteroids or aldosterone. Daily doses of exemestane up to 25 mg had no significant effect on circulating levels of androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, or 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and were associated with small decreases in circulating levels of testosterone.
The potential effects of an adult male taking Aromasin (Exemestane) daily include:
- Lowered estrogen levels: Exemestane is an aromatase inhibitor, which means it can lower estrogen levels in the body.
- Decreased testosterone levels: Daily doses of exemestane up to 25 mg have been associated with small decreases in circulating levels of testosterone.
- Potential effects on fertility and reproductive health: Exemestane can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, and animal studies have shown it to be abortifacient.
- Other potential side effects: Common adverse reactions to exemestane include hot flushes, arthralgia, increased sweating, alopecia, hypertension, insomnia, nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain, depression, diarrhea, and dizziness 1, 1.
From the Research
Aromasin (exemestane) is not recommended for daily use in adult males without medical supervision due to its potential to cause significant side effects and disrupt hormone balance. This medication is primarily approved for postmenopausal women with breast cancer and is not FDA-approved for men. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2020 2, suggests that aromatase inhibitors, including exemestane, are not recommended as treatment for functional hypogonadism in men due to insufficient efficacy and potential decrease in bone mineral density.
Potential Side Effects
The potential side effects of Aromasin in adult males include:
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Joint pain
- Mood changes
- Bone density loss, increasing fracture risk
- Lipid profile disturbances, raising cardiovascular risk
- Cognitive impairment
Mechanism of Action
Aromasin works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone to estrogen. While men need some estrogen for normal physiological function, Aromasin drastically reduces estrogen levels, disrupting this balance.
Off-Label Use
Some men misuse Aromasin to counter estrogen-related side effects from anabolic steroid use or to increase testosterone levels, but this off-label use carries substantial health risks. Any consideration of Aromasin use should only occur under proper medical supervision with regular monitoring of hormone levels and potential side effects, as supported by the study published in 2023 3.
Medical Supervision
It is essential to note that Aromasin is not approved for use in men, and its use should only be considered under proper medical supervision. The study published in 2009 4 highlights the importance of medical supervision in monitoring hormone levels and potential side effects.