Use of aromatase inhibitors to treat endometriosis-related pain symptoms: a systematic review

2011

Aromatase Inhibitors for Endometriosis Pain

Sample size: 251 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Simone Ferrero, David J Gillott, Pier L Venturini, Valentino Remorgida

Primary Institution: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Martino Hospital and University of Genoa, Italy

Hypothesis

This systematic review aims to assess the efficacy of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) in treating pain symptoms caused by endometriosis.

Conclusion

Aromatase inhibitors effectively reduce the severity of endometriosis-related pain symptoms.

Supporting Evidence

AIs combined with progestogens or oral contraceptive pills reduce pain severity and improve quality of life.
Letrozole combined with norethisterone acetate is more effective in reducing pain than norethisterone acetate alone.
Combining letrozole with norethisterone acetate results in fewer adverse effects compared to combining it with triptorelin.
Post-operative administration of AIs reduces the risk of endometriosis recurrence.

Takeaway

This study found that certain medications called aromatase inhibitors can help reduce pain for women with a condition called endometriosis.

Methodology

A systematic literature search was performed to identify all published studies evaluating the efficacy of AIs in treating endometriosis-related pain symptoms.