Its not "dangerous" when you stop taking non-steroidal ai's. Thats called an Estrogen rebound. Exemestane is not a milder form of Ai it litterally cuts the whole enzyme, causes hair loss too btw. Arimidex is the best cause it doesnt cause any of that
the first thing I'm saying is based on the experience of my friend lol and arimidex is probably better, this is the first time I've heard about hair loss, maybe you mean because of an increase in dht, it depends on genetics
no it causes hear shead
Get tf off this forum
Kinda late but I have theory that switching between AI could make so that you avoid your brain development
So 1.25mg per day? Can you tell about tamoxifen please please
nice thread
When it comes to heightmaxxing people always recommend the combination of HGH and an AI
but what even are Aromatase Inhibitors?
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Aromatase inhibitors!
read this guide if you want to gain knowledge about HGH → https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
THE ROLE OF ESTROGEN WHEN IT COMES TO HEIGHT
Human linear growth occurs at the epiphyseal (growth) plates of long bones, which are zones of cartilage undergoing endochondral ossification.
These plates consist of:
Resting zone: reserves of chondrocytes
Proliferative zone: active cell division
Hypertrophic zone: cell enlargement and mineralization
View attachment 4004032
So, bone lengthening continues until the growth plate closes, which marks the end of height increase.
This closure process is triggered by estrogen
How?
Estrogen closes growth plates by binding to estrogen receptor alpha on chondrocytes, pushing them to mature faster while depleting the reserve of stem-like cells that keep the plate active once these cells mature too quickly, the growth plate runs out of new cells that can make more bone length.
Estrogen also makes the plate release signals that pull in blood vessels, which bring bone building cells
These cells replace the last bits of cartilage with solid bone.
When that happens, the growth plate turns into a thin bony line, and you can’t get any taller.
So make sure your plates are open before you take action
you can confirm this through an x-ray of your hand or knee
The younger your bone age, the more potential you have to grow
ideally it should be younger than 16, but even after that you could grow a few more cm
but once plates are closed, Limb lenghtening is the only way to increase height other than fixing posture and wearing shoe-lifts
WHAT ARE AROMATASE INHIBITORS?
The story starts back in the 1950s and 60s when scientists first figured out how estrogen is made in the body.
They realized that if you could block the aromatase enzyme, you could lower estrogen levels and potentially slow down some type of cancers
In the 1970s, the first aromatase inhibitors were developed. These early drugs, like aminoglutethimide, weren’t very selective and had a lot of side effects.
They worked by binding tightly to the enzyme and basically breaking it, but because they weren’t very specific, patients often had issues.
Then, during the 1980s and early 90s, researchers worked on making better inhibitors.
Nonsteroidal ones came along, such as fadrozole and vorozole, which were safer and more targeted.
The big breakthrough happened in the 1990s: anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane were invented
These drugs were more effective, had fewer side effects, and became the new standard treatment for hormone-sensitive breast cancer
They’re still widely used today because they work well and patients tolerate them better than older drugs.
Aromatase inhibitors also come to play for treating male hypogonadism or delaying puberty
(and with that being able to grow for a longer period of time)
Aromatase inhibitors are compounds that block or kill the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen.
Aromatase is a cytochrome P450 enzyme, encoded bythe CYP19A1 gene.
It catalyzes the aromatization of the A-ring ofandrogens, specifically:
Testosterone into Estradiol and Androstenedione intoEstrone
(Estrogen refers to a group of hormones that include estradiol, estrone, and estriol, with estradiol being the most potent and prevalent)
By lowering estrogen levels, AIs can delay epiphyseal fusion, extending the window for longitudinal bone growth
The Aromatization Reaction (Biochemistry)
At the molecular level, aromatase performs a three-stepoxidation of the androgen substrate’s A-ring:
Hydroxylation of the 19-methyl group (C19).
Conversion to a formyl group.
Aromatization of the A-ring, forming an aromaticphenol (the hallmark of estrogen).
This process is NADPH-dependent, and localiezd in the endoplasmic reticulum of cells
By taking an aromatase inhibitor we can block this process leading to less estrogen
ANASTROZOLE, LETROZOLE AND EXEMESTANE IN COMPARISON
The main difference is that anastrozole and letrozole are non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, while exemestane is a steroidal aromatase inhibitor.
Simply put, this means that anastrozole and letrozole anesthetize the aromatase enzyme while exemestane kills the aromatase enzyme
(The enzyme is reproduced by the body)
GENERAL COMPARISON
Property Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femara) Exemestane (Aromasin) Type Non-steroidal, reversible Non-steroidal, reversible Steroidal, irreversible Estrogen Suppression ~50–70% (dose dependent) ~80–98% (very potent) ~65–85% (irreversible) Half-Life ~48 hrs ~40–60 hrs ~24–27 hrs Rebound Risk Medium if stopped fast High (sharp increase) Low (enzyme destroyed) Titration Precision High (easy microdose) Moderate to difficult Low (fixed dose tabs) Bone Impact Mild (long-term) moderate to severe moderate Lipid impact Mild, but could affect HDL Moderate to severe moderate Onset of Suppression ~24 hours Within hours ~24 hours (stronger than Anastrozole) Peak Suppression ~2–4 days ~2–3 days ~2–3 days
PRICES
Source Anastrozole Price (1mg) Letrozole Price (2.5mg) Exemestane Price (25mg) Pharma (Brand) $5–$10 $8–$15 $10–$20 Generic (Indian) $0.50–$1.50 $1–$3 $1–$4 UGL (Chinese) $0.20–$0.50 $0.30–$1 $0.30–$1
SIDE EFFECTS
Side Effect Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femera) Exemestane (Aromasin) Hot flashes Common Common Common Joint pain Moderate Moderate to severe Mild to moderate Fatigue Mild to moderate Moderate Mild to moderate Bone density loss Mild (long-term use) More severe if misused Moderate (monitor needed) Nausea Mild Mild to moderate Mild Mood changes Possible Possible Possible Headache Occasionally Occasionally Occasionally Increased cholesterol Mild Moderate to severe Moderate Muscle pain Mild Moderate Mild Exemestane is harsher on hair because of its androgenic metabolite, 17-β-hydroxyexemestane.
I’d recommend adding something like ru58841 if you choose exemestane.
(That said, hair loss from exemestane only happens if you’re genetically prone to it)
Side effects like losing cognitive abilities only occur when your estrogen is under 10 pg/mL for a longer period of time
this and hair loss were the side effects I was afraid of the most, but as long as you know what youre doing, you don't have to worry about them
Here is a study that proves Ais are safe when it comes to influencing cognitive abilities
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20421333
Also, Ais can increase levels of endogenous Testosterone production in men by 30-60% which is a lot
The biggest downside of non-steroidal Ai's is the possible estrogen rebound
Estrogen rebound is a phenomenon that occurs when the body experiences an increase in estrogen levels after discontinuing or reducing the dosage of aromatase inhibitors like Anastrozole or Letrozole.
This rebound effect happens because these AIs suppress the production of estrogen, but once the AI is stopped, estrogen levels rise temporarily as the body's natural production resumes.
This abrupt rise in the body’s natural production of estrogen could lead to premature closure of growth plates, potentially impacting final height.
Missing a few doses of a non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors could cause that, so be careful when using one
rebound can be strongly reduced by tapering off slowly instead of stopping suddenly
but in comparison to exemestane, letrozole and Anastrozole are cheaper and better studied
My personal choice is Exemestane, because it has the least side effects and estrogen rebound isn't a thing
(but like I said, every AI works, just keep E2 at 15-20 pg/mL
and if youre using a non-steroidal one, be careful that you dont forget to take them)
DOSAGE PROTOCOLS AND BLOODWORK
Test your E2 to find the dosage you probably need
1 week into your Ai you should do another blood test to see if you should adjust the dose
You want to Target blood estradiol levels of 15–20 pg/mL and never go under 10 pg/mL
(for reference, normal estradiol levels for teenagers are around 20-50 pg/mL)
If you can't do blood tests, youre basically playing russian roulette, so be careful
in that scenario start a low dose, for example 6,25mg of Exemestane and adjust the dose slowly on how you feel and symptoms you experience
symptoms of low estrogen
Sudden joint pain/dryness
Drop in libido or morning erections
Brain fog, mood drop, irritability
Dry skin or hair shedding increase
Unexplained fatigue
if these occure, lower the dose immediately
symptoms of high estrogen
Puffy face/water retention
Fat gain on hips/chest
Gynecomastia or nipple sensitivity
Emotional volatility or crying easily
Chronic bloating
if these occure you should up the dose
Also, here is an overview, how much different dosages suppress your estrogen
Anastrozole:
0.5 mg → ~50–60% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~80–85% E2 suppression
5 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression (plateau)
Letrozole:
0.25 mg → ~60–65% E2 suppression
0.5 mg → ~75–80% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression
2.5 mg → ~90–95% E2 suppression
Exemestane:
6.25 mg → ~30–35% E2 suppression
12.5 mg → ~55–60% E2 suppression
25 mg → ~85–95% E2 suppression
Avoid over suppression (estrogen crash) and Monitor symptoms and do bloodwork.
BlOODWORK
(budget friendly)
Test Estradiol (E2)
Why: Directly shows if your estrogen is in your target range (~15–20 pg/ml).
When:
before the start to calculate the dose you need and then check again 1 week after the start
If everything is correct check 1 month later to see if its stable
then every 8-10 weeks
Total Testosterone + Free Testosterone
Why: AI can raise testosterone; high T can cause secondary effects (acne, aggression, libido swings).
When: Same time as E2 checks.
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
Why: AI-induced changes in T and E2 affect SHBG, which changes free T availability.
When: every 8-12 weeks Alongside T/E2 checks.
Lipid Panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)
Why: Low E2 can lower HDL and raise LDL → cardiovascular risk.
When: Every 3 months.
Liver Enzymes (ALT, AST)
Why: Ais is metabolized in the liver; rare but possible liver stress.
When: Every 3 months or if symptoms appear.
(important if you drink alcohol)
Bone Health (long-term)
Why: Chronically low E2 can reduce bone density.
When: DEXA scan after 12+ months if running AI long-term.
(optional, but would be good)
simply put together
the baseline test would be:
E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG, Lipid Panel, ALT/AST
around 1 week after AI start:
E2 (sensitive) (optional Total T)
then E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG
every 8-10 weeks and lipids + liver enzymes every 3 months
You can do blood tests in private labs
IMPORTANT NOTES AND TIPS
The time when you take your Ai is not important (should still be around the same time)
But taking your Ai with a meal is
(alternatively, you can take your ai with a tablespoon of olive oil)
Storage:
Dry location with an ideal temperature of 15–25°C and no sun exposure
(just put it in your drawer)
Hormones return to baseline within 2–4 weeks after you stop taking your ai
weird, but don't eat Grapefruits and don't drink Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that block the liver enzyme CYP3A4, which helps break down many drugs, including aromatase inhibitors.
This blockage can cause the ai to build up in your blood, and with that increase the risk of side effects
CLINICAL STUDIES OF HEIGHT INCREASE WITH AIS
View attachment 4005487
STUDY https://ijpeonline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1687-9856-2015-4
Aromatase inhibitors Alone
Boys with idiopathic short stature or delayed puberty treated with anastrozole (AI) showed around 5 cm increase in predicted adult height by delaying growth plate closure
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16189252
Growth Hormone (HGH) Alone:
This study looked at kids with idiopathic short stature (ISS), meaning normal GH levels but short height.
HGH treatment increased adult height by an average of 4–6 cm compared to untreated children.
STUDY https://umraniyepediatri.com/storage/upload/pdfs/1732279204-en.pdf
Combination Therapy (AI + HGH):
combining growth hormone with aromatase inhibitors in adolescent boys with idiopathic short stature led to an average adult height increase of about 6 to 9 cm.
STUDY https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/110/9/e2871/8125692?login=false
HOPEFUL
Boys grow 2.13 cm in average after the age of 18 without anything
a study shows, that on average, boys grew an additional 2.13 cm between ages 18 and 27, with some increasing by as much as 7 cm
absolutely hopeful study
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6638938
AIS IN CONTEXT OF BODYBUILDING
View attachment 4007910
i dont want this topic to be left out completely, but i will just cover the most important things
because of higher testosterone levels, the body converts more testosterone to estrogen
Ais can help to control estrogen levels during steroid cycles,
preventing side effects like water retention, bloating, and gynecomastia.
They’re used to maintain a healthy testosterone-to-estrogen balance, which supports better muscle gains, mood, and overall performance.
Additionally, by limiting estrogen, AIs can reduce fat storage and help bodybuilders achieve a leaner, more defined physique.
When Ais come to play in bodybuilding
if your Estradiol is too high and you experience side effects like
-Gyno
-Water retention
-Severe acne
-Mood swings (irritability or depression)
At High Doses or for Estrogen-Sensitive Users
some users don't need one even with +500 mg test a week
while some require an AI even with just 250 mg/week
(At ~500 mg testosterone a week most need an AI)
During Contest Prep
Ais reduce water retention, many bodybuilders use that to achieve a more defined and dryer look
Post-Cycle therapy (PCT)
After a steroid cycle to restore natural testosterone production
Often combined with SERMs (Clomid, Nolvadex)
SPECIAL TOPICS
AI Resistance
true resistance to aromatase inhibitors in men is very rare, but possible
In bodybuilding “resistance” usually means underdosing,
poor absorption of the product, or genetic differences in aromatase activity
In practice:
If estrogen stays high despite seemingly adequate AI dosing,
first rule out fake/underdosed product and high androgen load before assuming true resistance
Many UGL AIs are underdosed
Buy from tested sources (Janoshik reports).
and see how much impact they have on your E2 via bloodwork
Myths about estrogen
Myth 1: “Lower estrogen = more muscle gains.”
Truth: Too little estrogen impairs strength, recovery, joint health, and IGF-1 signaling, all critical for muscle growth.
Myth 2: “Estrogen is bad for men and should be eliminated completely.”
Truth: Estrogen plays important roles in men, including bone haelth, brain function, and regulating libido
Myth 3: “If you don’t feel symptoms, your estrogen is fine.”
Truth: Some people have no noticeable symptoms until E2 is way out of range, that's why blood tests are so important
(for example, my E2 was at 56 pg/mL and i didn't notice anything)
CONCLUSION
Ais work by lowering estrogen, which delays the closing of your growth plates, giving you more time to grow taller and with that
are a great tool that could give you another 1-6cm, depending on your bone age
(keep in mind that if youre 5'7 at 16 or older with a similar bone age, nothing except LL will bring you to 6'0)
The younger your bone age, the more you can grow through all of this
even tough they are different, the type of Ai you use doesnt really matter
but understanding how they work does
So, while AIs can help extend your growth window, they’re not some magic pill, get your bloodwork done and dont be a retard
if i forget anything you want to know, just tell me
other threads i strongly recommend reading
Another guide on HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/theore...omatase-inhibitor-for-pubertymaxxing.1061735/
Heightmaxxing experience with HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/coveri...xperience-results-tips-and-struggles.1172898/
About HGH
https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
hope we all ascend
-renos
@Zagro @Mainlander @MyDreamIsToBe183CM
I just did a sensitive e2 test it came out as 7.7 and also did a left wrist xray did the plates close yet and do i use an ai to make it even less
When it comes to heightmaxxing people always recommend the combination of HGH and an AI
but what even are Aromatase Inhibitors?
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Aromatase inhibitors!
read this guide if you want to gain knowledge about HGH → https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
THE ROLE OF ESTROGEN WHEN IT COMES TO HEIGHT
Human linear growth occurs at the epiphyseal (growth) plates of long bones, which are zones of cartilage undergoing endochondral ossification.
These plates consist of:
Resting zone: reserves of chondrocytes
Proliferative zone: active cell division
Hypertrophic zone: cell enlargement and mineralization
View attachment 4004032
So, bone lengthening continues until the growth plate closes, which marks the end of height increase.
This closure process is triggered by estrogen
How?
Estrogen closes growth plates by binding to estrogen receptor alpha on chondrocytes, pushing them to mature faster while depleting the reserve of stem-like cells that keep the plate active once these cells mature too quickly, the growth plate runs out of new cells that can make more bone length.
Estrogen also makes the plate release signals that pull in blood vessels, which bring bone building cells
These cells replace the last bits of cartilage with solid bone.
When that happens, the growth plate turns into a thin bony line, and you can’t get any taller.
So make sure your plates are open before you take action
you can confirm this through an x-ray of your hand or knee
The younger your bone age, the more potential you have to grow
ideally it should be younger than 16, but even after that you could grow a few more cm
but once plates are closed, Limb lenghtening is the only way to increase height other than fixing posture and wearing shoe-lifts
WHAT ARE AROMATASE INHIBITORS?
The story starts back in the 1950s and 60s when scientists first figured out how estrogen is made in the body.
They realized that if you could block the aromatase enzyme, you could lower estrogen levels and potentially slow down some type of cancers
In the 1970s, the first aromatase inhibitors were developed. These early drugs, like aminoglutethimide, weren’t very selective and had a lot of side effects.
They worked by binding tightly to the enzyme and basically breaking it, but because they weren’t very specific, patients often had issues.
Then, during the 1980s and early 90s, researchers worked on making better inhibitors.
Nonsteroidal ones came along, such as fadrozole and vorozole, which were safer and more targeted.
The big breakthrough happened in the 1990s: anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane were invented
These drugs were more effective, had fewer side effects, and became the new standard treatment for hormone-sensitive breast cancer
They’re still widely used today because they work well and patients tolerate them better than older drugs.
Aromatase inhibitors also come to play for treating male hypogonadism or delaying puberty
(and with that being able to grow for a longer period of time)
Aromatase inhibitors are compounds that block or kill the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen.
Aromatase is a cytochrome P450 enzyme, encoded bythe CYP19A1 gene.
It catalyzes the aromatization of the A-ring ofandrogens, specifically:
Testosterone into Estradiol and Androstenedione intoEstrone
(Estrogen refers to a group of hormones that include estradiol, estrone, and estriol, with estradiol being the most potent and prevalent)
By lowering estrogen levels, AIs can delay epiphyseal fusion, extending the window for longitudinal bone growth
The Aromatization Reaction (Biochemistry)
At the molecular level, aromatase performs a three-stepoxidation of the androgen substrate’s A-ring:
Hydroxylation of the 19-methyl group (C19).
Conversion to a formyl group.
Aromatization of the A-ring, forming an aromaticphenol (the hallmark of estrogen).
This process is NADPH-dependent, and localiezd in the endoplasmic reticulum of cells
By taking an aromatase inhibitor we can block this process leading to less estrogen
ANASTROZOLE, LETROZOLE AND EXEMESTANE IN COMPARISON
The main difference is that anastrozole and letrozole are non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, while exemestane is a steroidal aromatase inhibitor.
Simply put, this means that anastrozole and letrozole anesthetize the aromatase enzyme while exemestane kills the aromatase enzyme
(The enzyme is reproduced by the body)
GENERAL COMPARISON
Property Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femara) Exemestane (Aromasin) Type Non-steroidal, reversible Non-steroidal, reversible Steroidal, irreversible Estrogen Suppression ~50–70% (dose dependent) ~80–98% (very potent) ~65–85% (irreversible) Half-Life ~48 hrs ~40–60 hrs ~24–27 hrs Rebound Risk Medium if stopped fast High (sharp increase) Low (enzyme destroyed) Titration Precision High (easy microdose) Moderate to difficult Low (fixed dose tabs) Bone Impact Mild (long-term) moderate to severe moderate Lipid impact Mild, but could affect HDL Moderate to severe moderate Onset of Suppression ~24 hours Within hours ~24 hours (stronger than Anastrozole) Peak Suppression ~2–4 days ~2–3 days ~2–3 days
PRICES
Source Anastrozole Price (1mg) Letrozole Price (2.5mg) Exemestane Price (25mg) Pharma (Brand) $5–$10 $8–$15 $10–$20 Generic (Indian) $0.50–$1.50 $1–$3 $1–$4 UGL (Chinese) $0.20–$0.50 $0.30–$1 $0.30–$1
SIDE EFFECTS
Side Effect Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femera) Exemestane (Aromasin) Hot flashes Common Common Common Joint pain Moderate Moderate to severe Mild to moderate Fatigue Mild to moderate Moderate Mild to moderate Bone density loss Mild (long-term use) More severe if misused Moderate (monitor needed) Nausea Mild Mild to moderate Mild Mood changes Possible Possible Possible Headache Occasionally Occasionally Occasionally Increased cholesterol Mild Moderate to severe Moderate Muscle pain Mild Moderate Mild Exemestane is harsher on hair because of its androgenic metabolite, 17-β-hydroxyexemestane.
I’d recommend adding something like ru58841 if you choose exemestane.
(That said, hair loss from exemestane only happens if you’re genetically prone to it)
Side effects like losing cognitive abilities only occur when your estrogen is under 10 pg/mL for a longer period of time
this and hair loss were the side effects I was afraid of the most, but as long as you know what youre doing, you don't have to worry about them
Here is a study that proves Ais are safe when it comes to influencing cognitive abilities
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20421333
Also, Ais can increase levels of endogenous Testosterone production in men by 30-60% which is a lot
The biggest downside of non-steroidal Ai's is the possible estrogen rebound
Estrogen rebound is a phenomenon that occurs when the body experiences an increase in estrogen levels after discontinuing or reducing the dosage of aromatase inhibitors like Anastrozole or Letrozole.
This rebound effect happens because these AIs suppress the production of estrogen, but once the AI is stopped, estrogen levels rise temporarily as the body's natural production resumes.
This abrupt rise in the body’s natural production of estrogen could lead to premature closure of growth plates, potentially impacting final height.
Missing a few doses of a non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors could cause that, so be careful when using one
rebound can be strongly reduced by tapering off slowly instead of stopping suddenly
but in comparison to exemestane, letrozole and Anastrozole are cheaper and better studied
My personal choice is Exemestane, because it has the least side effects and estrogen rebound isn't a thing
(but like I said, every AI works, just keep E2 at 15-20 pg/mL
and if youre using a non-steroidal one, be careful that you dont forget to take them)
DOSAGE PROTOCOLS AND BLOODWORK
Test your E2 to find the dosage you probably need
1 week into your Ai you should do another blood test to see if you should adjust the dose
You want to Target blood estradiol levels of 15–20 pg/mL and never go under 10 pg/mL
(for reference, normal estradiol levels for teenagers are around 20-50 pg/mL)
If you can't do blood tests, youre basically playing russian roulette, so be careful
in that scenario start a low dose, for example 6,25mg of Exemestane and adjust the dose slowly on how you feel and symptoms you experience
symptoms of low estrogen
Sudden joint pain/dryness
Drop in libido or morning erections
Brain fog, mood drop, irritability
Dry skin or hair shedding increase
Unexplained fatigue
if these occure, lower the dose immediately
symptoms of high estrogen
Puffy face/water retention
Fat gain on hips/chest
Gynecomastia or nipple sensitivity
Emotional volatility or crying easily
Chronic bloating
if these occure you should up the dose
Also, here is an overview, how much different dosages suppress your estrogen
Anastrozole:
0.5 mg → ~50–60% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~80–85% E2 suppression
5 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression (plateau)
Letrozole:
0.25 mg → ~60–65% E2 suppression
0.5 mg → ~75–80% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression
2.5 mg → ~90–95% E2 suppression
Exemestane:
6.25 mg → ~30–35% E2 suppression
12.5 mg → ~55–60% E2 suppression
25 mg → ~85–95% E2 suppression
Avoid over suppression (estrogen crash) and Monitor symptoms and do bloodwork.
BlOODWORK
(budget friendly)
Test Estradiol (E2)
Why: Directly shows if your estrogen is in your target range (~15–20 pg/ml).
When:
before the start to calculate the dose you need and then check again 1 week after the start
If everything is correct check 1 month later to see if its stable
then every 8-10 weeks
Total Testosterone + Free Testosterone
Why: AI can raise testosterone; high T can cause secondary effects (acne, aggression, libido swings).
When: Same time as E2 checks.
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
Why: AI-induced changes in T and E2 affect SHBG, which changes free T availability.
When: every 8-12 weeks Alongside T/E2 checks.
Lipid Panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)
Why: Low E2 can lower HDL and raise LDL → cardiovascular risk.
When: Every 3 months.
Liver Enzymes (ALT, AST)
Why: Ais is metabolized in the liver; rare but possible liver stress.
When: Every 3 months or if symptoms appear.
(important if you drink alcohol)
Bone Health (long-term)
Why: Chronically low E2 can reduce bone density.
When: DEXA scan after 12+ months if running AI long-term.
(optional, but would be good)
simply put together
the baseline test would be:
E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG, Lipid Panel, ALT/AST
around 1 week after AI start:
E2 (sensitive) (optional Total T)
then E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG
every 8-10 weeks and lipids + liver enzymes every 3 months
You can do blood tests in private labs
IMPORTANT NOTES AND TIPS
The time when you take your Ai is not important (should still be around the same time)
But taking your Ai with a meal is
(alternatively, you can take your ai with a tablespoon of olive oil)
Storage:
Dry location with an ideal temperature of 15–25°C and no sun exposure
(just put it in your drawer)
Hormones return to baseline within 2–4 weeks after you stop taking your ai
weird, but don't eat Grapefruits and don't drink Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that block the liver enzyme CYP3A4, which helps break down many drugs, including aromatase inhibitors.
This blockage can cause the ai to build up in your blood, and with that increase the risk of side effects
CLINICAL STUDIES OF HEIGHT INCREASE WITH AIS
View attachment 4005487
STUDY https://ijpeonline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1687-9856-2015-4
Aromatase inhibitors Alone
Boys with idiopathic short stature or delayed puberty treated with anastrozole (AI) showed around 5 cm increase in predicted adult height by delaying growth plate closure
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16189252
Growth Hormone (HGH) Alone:
This study looked at kids with idiopathic short stature (ISS), meaning normal GH levels but short height.
HGH treatment increased adult height by an average of 4–6 cm compared to untreated children.
STUDY https://umraniyepediatri.com/storage/upload/pdfs/1732279204-en.pdf
Combination Therapy (AI + HGH):
combining growth hormone with aromatase inhibitors in adolescent boys with idiopathic short stature led to an average adult height increase of about 6 to 9 cm.
STUDY https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/110/9/e2871/8125692?login=false
HOPEFUL
Boys grow 2.13 cm in average after the age of 18 without anything
a study shows, that on average, boys grew an additional 2.13 cm between ages 18 and 27, with some increasing by as much as 7 cm
absolutely hopeful study
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6638938
AIS IN CONTEXT OF BODYBUILDING
View attachment 4007910
i dont want this topic to be left out completely, but i will just cover the most important things
because of higher testosterone levels, the body converts more testosterone to estrogen
Ais can help to control estrogen levels during steroid cycles,
preventing side effects like water retention, bloating, and gynecomastia.
They’re used to maintain a healthy testosterone-to-estrogen balance, which supports better muscle gains, mood, and overall performance.
Additionally, by limiting estrogen, AIs can reduce fat storage and help bodybuilders achieve a leaner, more defined physique.
When Ais come to play in bodybuilding
if your Estradiol is too high and you experience side effects like
-Gyno
-Water retention
-Severe acne
-Mood swings (irritability or depression)
At High Doses or for Estrogen-Sensitive Users
some users don't need one even with +500 mg test a week
while some require an AI even with just 250 mg/week
(At ~500 mg testosterone a week most need an AI)
During Contest Prep
Ais reduce water retention, many bodybuilders use that to achieve a more defined and dryer look
Post-Cycle therapy (PCT)
After a steroid cycle to restore natural testosterone production
Often combined with SERMs (Clomid, Nolvadex)
SPECIAL TOPICS
AI Resistance
true resistance to aromatase inhibitors in men is very rare, but possible
In bodybuilding “resistance” usually means underdosing,
poor absorption of the product, or genetic differences in aromatase activity
In practice:
If estrogen stays high despite seemingly adequate AI dosing,
first rule out fake/underdosed product and high androgen load before assuming true resistance
Many UGL AIs are underdosed
Buy from tested sources (Janoshik reports).
and see how much impact they have on your E2 via bloodwork
Myths about estrogen
Myth 1: “Lower estrogen = more muscle gains.”
Truth: Too little estrogen impairs strength, recovery, joint health, and IGF-1 signaling, all critical for muscle growth.
Myth 2: “Estrogen is bad for men and should be eliminated completely.”
Truth: Estrogen plays important roles in men, including bone haelth, brain function, and regulating libido
Myth 3: “If you don’t feel symptoms, your estrogen is fine.”
Truth: Some people have no noticeable symptoms until E2 is way out of range, that's why blood tests are so important
(for example, my E2 was at 56 pg/mL and i didn't notice anything)
CONCLUSION
Ais work by lowering estrogen, which delays the closing of your growth plates, giving you more time to grow taller and with that
are a great tool that could give you another 1-6cm, depending on your bone age
(keep in mind that if youre 5'7 at 16 or older with a similar bone age, nothing except LL will bring you to 6'0)
The younger your bone age, the more you can grow through all of this
even tough they are different, the type of Ai you use doesnt really matter
but understanding how they work does
So, while AIs can help extend your growth window, they’re not some magic pill, get your bloodwork done and dont be a retard
if i forget anything you want to know, just tell me
other threads i strongly recommend reading
Another guide on HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/theore...omatase-inhibitor-for-pubertymaxxing.1061735/
Heightmaxxing experience with HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/coveri...xperience-results-tips-and-struggles.1172898/
About HGH
https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
hope we all ascend
-renos
@Zagro @Mainlander @MyDreamIsToBe183CM
Holy fuck this is gold, well said
When it comes to heightmaxxing people always recommend the combination of HGH and an AI
but what even are Aromatase Inhibitors?
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Aromatase inhibitors!
read this guide if you want to gain knowledge about HGH → https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
THE ROLE OF ESTROGEN WHEN IT COMES TO HEIGHT
Human linear growth occurs at the epiphyseal (growth) plates of long bones, which are zones of cartilage undergoing endochondral ossification.
These plates consist of:
Resting zone: reserves of chondrocytes
Proliferative zone: active cell division
Hypertrophic zone: cell enlargement and mineralization
View attachment 4004032
So, bone lengthening continues until the growth plate closes, which marks the end of height increase.
This closure process is triggered by estrogen
How?
Estrogen closes growth plates by binding to estrogen receptor alpha on chondrocytes, pushing them to mature faster while depleting the reserve of stem-like cells that keep the plate active once these cells mature too quickly, the growth plate runs out of new cells that can make more bone length.
Estrogen also makes the plate release signals that pull in blood vessels, which bring bone building cells
These cells replace the last bits of cartilage with solid bone.
When that happens, the growth plate turns into a thin bony line, and you can’t get any taller.
So make sure your plates are open before you take action
you can confirm this through an x-ray of your hand or knee
The younger your bone age, the more potential you have to grow
ideally it should be younger than 16, but even after that you could grow a few more cm
but once plates are closed, Limb lenghtening is the only way to increase height other than fixing posture and wearing shoe-lifts
WHAT ARE AROMATASE INHIBITORS?
The story starts back in the 1950s and 60s when scientists first figured out how estrogen is made in the body.
They realized that if you could block the aromatase enzyme, you could lower estrogen levels and potentially slow down some type of cancers
In the 1970s, the first aromatase inhibitors were developed. These early drugs, like aminoglutethimide, weren’t very selective and had a lot of side effects.
They worked by binding tightly to the enzyme and basically breaking it, but because they weren’t very specific, patients often had issues.
Then, during the 1980s and early 90s, researchers worked on making better inhibitors.
Nonsteroidal ones came along, such as fadrozole and vorozole, which were safer and more targeted.
The big breakthrough happened in the 1990s: anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane were invented
These drugs were more effective, had fewer side effects, and became the new standard treatment for hormone-sensitive breast cancer
They’re still widely used today because they work well and patients tolerate them better than older drugs.
Aromatase inhibitors also come to play for treating male hypogonadism or delaying puberty
(and with that being able to grow for a longer period of time)
Aromatase inhibitors are compounds that block or kill the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen.
Aromatase is a cytochrome P450 enzyme, encoded bythe CYP19A1 gene.
It catalyzes the aromatization of the A-ring ofandrogens, specifically:
Testosterone into Estradiol and Androstenedione intoEstrone
(Estrogen refers to a group of hormones that include estradiol, estrone, and estriol, with estradiol being the most potent and prevalent)
By lowering estrogen levels, AIs can delay epiphyseal fusion, extending the window for longitudinal bone growth
The Aromatization Reaction (Biochemistry)
At the molecular level, aromatase performs a three-stepoxidation of the androgen substrate’s A-ring:
Hydroxylation of the 19-methyl group (C19).
Conversion to a formyl group.
Aromatization of the A-ring, forming an aromaticphenol (the hallmark of estrogen).
This process is NADPH-dependent, and localiezd in the endoplasmic reticulum of cells
By taking an aromatase inhibitor we can block this process leading to less estrogen
ANASTROZOLE, LETROZOLE AND EXEMESTANE IN COMPARISON
The main difference is that anastrozole and letrozole are non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, while exemestane is a steroidal aromatase inhibitor.
Simply put, this means that anastrozole and letrozole anesthetize the aromatase enzyme while exemestane kills the aromatase enzyme
(The enzyme is reproduced by the body)
GENERAL COMPARISON
Property Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femara) Exemestane (Aromasin) Type Non-steroidal, reversible Non-steroidal, reversible Steroidal, irreversible Estrogen Suppression ~50–70% (dose dependent) ~80–98% (very potent) ~65–85% (irreversible) Half-Life ~48 hrs ~40–60 hrs ~24–27 hrs Rebound Risk Medium if stopped fast High (sharp increase) Low (enzyme destroyed) Titration Precision High (easy microdose) Moderate to difficult Low (fixed dose tabs) Bone Impact Mild (long-term) moderate to severe moderate Lipid impact Mild, but could affect HDL Moderate to severe moderate Onset of Suppression ~24 hours Within hours ~24 hours (stronger than Anastrozole) Peak Suppression ~2–4 days ~2–3 days ~2–3 days
PRICES
Source Anastrozole Price (1mg) Letrozole Price (2.5mg) Exemestane Price (25mg) Pharma (Brand) $5–$10 $8–$15 $10–$20 Generic (Indian) $0.50–$1.50 $1–$3 $1–$4 UGL (Chinese) $0.20–$0.50 $0.30–$1 $0.30–$1
SIDE EFFECTS
Side Effect Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femera) Exemestane (Aromasin) Hot flashes Common Common Common Joint pain Moderate Moderate to severe Mild to moderate Fatigue Mild to moderate Moderate Mild to moderate Bone density loss Mild (long-term use) More severe if misused Moderate (monitor needed) Nausea Mild Mild to moderate Mild Mood changes Possible Possible Possible Headache Occasionally Occasionally Occasionally Increased cholesterol Mild Moderate to severe Moderate Muscle pain Mild Moderate Mild Exemestane is harsher on hair because of its androgenic metabolite, 17-β-hydroxyexemestane.
I’d recommend adding something like ru58841 if you choose exemestane.
(That said, hair loss from exemestane only happens if you’re genetically prone to it)
Side effects like losing cognitive abilities only occur when your estrogen is under 10 pg/mL for a longer period of time
this and hair loss were the side effects I was afraid of the most, but as long as you know what youre doing, you don't have to worry about them
Here is a study that proves Ais are safe when it comes to influencing cognitive abilities
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20421333
Also, Ais can increase levels of endogenous Testosterone production in men by 30-60% which is a lot
The biggest downside of non-steroidal Ai's is the possible estrogen rebound
Estrogen rebound is a phenomenon that occurs when the body experiences an increase in estrogen levels after discontinuing or reducing the dosage of aromatase inhibitors like Anastrozole or Letrozole.
This rebound effect happens because these AIs suppress the production of estrogen, but once the AI is stopped, estrogen levels rise temporarily as the body's natural production resumes.
This abrupt rise in the body’s natural production of estrogen could lead to premature closure of growth plates, potentially impacting final height.
Missing a few doses of a non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors could cause that, so be careful when using one
rebound can be strongly reduced by tapering off slowly instead of stopping suddenly
but in comparison to exemestane, letrozole and Anastrozole are cheaper and better studied
My personal choice is Exemestane, because it has the least side effects and estrogen rebound isn't a thing
(but like I said, every AI works, just keep E2 at 15-20 pg/mL
and if youre using a non-steroidal one, be careful that you dont forget to take them)
DOSAGE PROTOCOLS AND BLOODWORK
Test your E2 to find the dosage you probably need
1 week into your Ai you should do another blood test to see if you should adjust the dose
You want to Target blood estradiol levels of 15–20 pg/mL and never go under 10 pg/mL
(for reference, normal estradiol levels for teenagers are around 20-50 pg/mL)
If you can't do blood tests, youre basically playing russian roulette, so be careful
in that scenario start a low dose, for example 6,25mg of Exemestane and adjust the dose slowly on how you feel and symptoms you experience
symptoms of low estrogen
Sudden joint pain/dryness
Drop in libido or morning erections
Brain fog, mood drop, irritability
Dry skin or hair shedding increase
Unexplained fatigue
if these occure, lower the dose immediately
symptoms of high estrogen
Puffy face/water retention
Fat gain on hips/chest
Gynecomastia or nipple sensitivity
Emotional volatility or crying easily
Chronic bloating
if these occure you should up the dose
Also, here is an overview, how much different dosages suppress your estrogen
Anastrozole:
0.5 mg → ~50–60% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~80–85% E2 suppression
5 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression (plateau)
Letrozole:
0.25 mg → ~60–65% E2 suppression
0.5 mg → ~75–80% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression
2.5 mg → ~90–95% E2 suppression
Exemestane:
6.25 mg → ~30–35% E2 suppression
12.5 mg → ~55–60% E2 suppression
25 mg → ~85–95% E2 suppression
Avoid over suppression (estrogen crash) and Monitor symptoms and do bloodwork.
BlOODWORK
(budget friendly)
Test Estradiol (E2)
Why: Directly shows if your estrogen is in your target range (~15–20 pg/ml).
When:
before the start to calculate the dose you need and then check again 1 week after the start
If everything is correct check 1 month later to see if its stable
then every 8-10 weeks
Total Testosterone + Free Testosterone
Why: AI can raise testosterone; high T can cause secondary effects (acne, aggression, libido swings).
When: Same time as E2 checks.
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
Why: AI-induced changes in T and E2 affect SHBG, which changes free T availability.
When: every 8-12 weeks Alongside T/E2 checks.
Lipid Panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)
Why: Low E2 can lower HDL and raise LDL → cardiovascular risk.
When: Every 3 months.
Liver Enzymes (ALT, AST)
Why: Ais is metabolized in the liver; rare but possible liver stress.
When: Every 3 months or if symptoms appear.
(important if you drink alcohol)
Bone Health (long-term)
Why: Chronically low E2 can reduce bone density.
When: DEXA scan after 12+ months if running AI long-term.
(optional, but would be good)
simply put together
the baseline test would be:
E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG, Lipid Panel, ALT/AST
around 1 week after AI start:
E2 (sensitive) (optional Total T)
then E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG
every 8-10 weeks and lipids + liver enzymes every 3 months
You can do blood tests in private labs
IMPORTANT NOTES AND TIPS
The time when you take your Ai is not important (should still be around the same time)
But taking your Ai with a meal is
(alternatively, you can take your ai with a tablespoon of olive oil)
Storage:
Dry location with an ideal temperature of 15–25°C and no sun exposure
(just put it in your drawer)
Hormones return to baseline within 2–4 weeks after you stop taking your ai
weird, but don't eat Grapefruits and don't drink Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that block the liver enzyme CYP3A4, which helps break down many drugs, including aromatase inhibitors.
This blockage can cause the ai to build up in your blood, and with that increase the risk of side effects
CLINICAL STUDIES OF HEIGHT INCREASE WITH AIS
View attachment 4005487
STUDY https://ijpeonline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1687-9856-2015-4
Aromatase inhibitors Alone
Boys with idiopathic short stature or delayed puberty treated with anastrozole (AI) showed around 5 cm increase in predicted adult height by delaying growth plate closure
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16189252
Growth Hormone (HGH) Alone:
This study looked at kids with idiopathic short stature (ISS), meaning normal GH levels but short height.
HGH treatment increased adult height by an average of 4–6 cm compared to untreated children.
STUDY https://umraniyepediatri.com/storage/upload/pdfs/1732279204-en.pdf
Combination Therapy (AI + HGH):
combining growth hormone with aromatase inhibitors in adolescent boys with idiopathic short stature led to an average adult height increase of about 6 to 9 cm.
STUDY https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/110/9/e2871/8125692?login=false
HOPEFUL
Boys grow 2.13 cm in average after the age of 18 without anything
a study shows, that on average, boys grew an additional 2.13 cm between ages 18 and 27, with some increasing by as much as 7 cm
absolutely hopeful study
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6638938
AIS IN CONTEXT OF BODYBUILDING
View attachment 4007910
i dont want this topic to be left out completely, but i will just cover the most important things
because of higher testosterone levels, the body converts more testosterone to estrogen
Ais can help to control estrogen levels during steroid cycles,
preventing side effects like water retention, bloating, and gynecomastia.
They’re used to maintain a healthy testosterone-to-estrogen balance, which supports better muscle gains, mood, and overall performance.
Additionally, by limiting estrogen, AIs can reduce fat storage and help bodybuilders achieve a leaner, more defined physique.
When Ais come to play in bodybuilding
if your Estradiol is too high and you experience side effects like
-Gyno
-Water retention
-Severe acne
-Mood swings (irritability or depression)
At High Doses or for Estrogen-Sensitive Users
some users don't need one even with +500 mg test a week
while some require an AI even with just 250 mg/week
(At ~500 mg testosterone a week most need an AI)
During Contest Prep
Ais reduce water retention, many bodybuilders use that to achieve a more defined and dryer look
Post-Cycle therapy (PCT)
After a steroid cycle to restore natural testosterone production
Often combined with SERMs (Clomid, Nolvadex)
SPECIAL TOPICS
AI Resistance
true resistance to aromatase inhibitors in men is very rare, but possible
In bodybuilding “resistance” usually means underdosing,
poor absorption of the product, or genetic differences in aromatase activity
In practice:
If estrogen stays high despite seemingly adequate AI dosing,
first rule out fake/underdosed product and high androgen load before assuming true resistance
Many UGL AIs are underdosed
Buy from tested sources (Janoshik reports).
and see how much impact they have on your E2 via bloodwork
Myths about estrogen
Myth 1: “Lower estrogen = more muscle gains.”
Truth: Too little estrogen impairs strength, recovery, joint health, and IGF-1 signaling, all critical for muscle growth.
Myth 2: “Estrogen is bad for men and should be eliminated completely.”
Truth: Estrogen plays important roles in men, including bone haelth, brain function, and regulating libido
Myth 3: “If you don’t feel symptoms, your estrogen is fine.”
Truth: Some people have no noticeable symptoms until E2 is way out of range, that's why blood tests are so important
(for example, my E2 was at 56 pg/mL and i didn't notice anything)
CONCLUSION
Ais work by lowering estrogen, which delays the closing of your growth plates, giving you more time to grow taller and with that
are a great tool that could give you another 1-6cm, depending on your bone age
(keep in mind that if youre 5'7 at 16 or older with a similar bone age, nothing except LL will bring you to 6'0)
The younger your bone age, the more you can grow through all of this
even tough they are different, the type of Ai you use doesnt really matter
but understanding how they work does
So, while AIs can help extend your growth window, they’re not some magic pill, get your bloodwork done and dont be a retard
if i forget anything you want to know, just tell me
other threads i strongly recommend reading
Another guide on HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/theore...omatase-inhibitor-for-pubertymaxxing.1061735/
Heightmaxxing experience with HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/coveri...xperience-results-tips-and-struggles.1172898/
About HGH
https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
hope we all ascend
-renos
@Zagro @Mainlander @MyDreamIsToBe183CM
This is mega cope bcz the claim 10-20 is optimal and not too low is retartad there is no study indicating that and 1mg anastrazole is what was used which is very high dose that crashed e2 so JFL at u faggots I've seen ts 10-15 is optimal claim a lot
When it comes to heightmaxxing people always recommend the combination of HGH and an AI
but what even are Aromatase Inhibitors?
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Aromatase inhibitors!
read this guide if you want to gain knowledge about HGH → https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
THE ROLE OF ESTROGEN WHEN IT COMES TO HEIGHT
Human linear growth occurs at the epiphyseal (growth) plates of long bones, which are zones of cartilage undergoing endochondral ossification.
These plates consist of:
Resting zone: reserves of chondrocytes
Proliferative zone: active cell division
Hypertrophic zone: cell enlargement and mineralization
View attachment 4004032
So, bone lengthening continues until the growth plate closes, which marks the end of height increase.
This closure process is triggered by estrogen
How?
Estrogen closes growth plates by binding to estrogen receptor alpha on chondrocytes, pushing them to mature faster while depleting the reserve of stem-like cells that keep the plate active once these cells mature too quickly, the growth plate runs out of new cells that can make more bone length.
Estrogen also makes the plate release signals that pull in blood vessels, which bring bone building cells
These cells replace the last bits of cartilage with solid bone.
When that happens, the growth plate turns into a thin bony line, and you can’t get any taller.
So make sure your plates are open before you take action
you can confirm this through an x-ray of your hand or knee
The younger your bone age, the more potential you have to grow
ideally it should be younger than 16, but even after that you could grow a few more cm
but once plates are closed, Limb lenghtening is the only way to increase height other than fixing posture and wearing shoe-lifts
WHAT ARE AROMATASE INHIBITORS?
The story starts back in the 1950s and 60s when scientists first figured out how estrogen is made in the body.
They realized that if you could block the aromatase enzyme, you could lower estrogen levels and potentially slow down some type of cancers
In the 1970s, the first aromatase inhibitors were developed. These early drugs, like aminoglutethimide, weren’t very selective and had a lot of side effects.
They worked by binding tightly to the enzyme and basically breaking it, but because they weren’t very specific, patients often had issues.
Then, during the 1980s and early 90s, researchers worked on making better inhibitors.
Nonsteroidal ones came along, such as fadrozole and vorozole, which were safer and more targeted.
The big breakthrough happened in the 1990s: anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane were invented
These drugs were more effective, had fewer side effects, and became the new standard treatment for hormone-sensitive breast cancer
They’re still widely used today because they work well and patients tolerate them better than older drugs.
Aromatase inhibitors also come to play for treating male hypogonadism or delaying puberty
(and with that being able to grow for a longer period of time)
Aromatase inhibitors are compounds that block or kill the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen.
Aromatase is a cytochrome P450 enzyme, encoded bythe CYP19A1 gene.
It catalyzes the aromatization of the A-ring ofandrogens, specifically:
Testosterone into Estradiol and Androstenedione intoEstrone
(Estrogen refers to a group of hormones that include estradiol, estrone, and estriol, with estradiol being the most potent and prevalent)
By lowering estrogen levels, AIs can delay epiphyseal fusion, extending the window for longitudinal bone growth
The Aromatization Reaction (Biochemistry)
At the molecular level, aromatase performs a three-stepoxidation of the androgen substrate’s A-ring:
Hydroxylation of the 19-methyl group (C19).
Conversion to a formyl group.
Aromatization of the A-ring, forming an aromaticphenol (the hallmark of estrogen).
This process is NADPH-dependent, and localiezd in the endoplasmic reticulum of cells
By taking an aromatase inhibitor we can block this process leading to less estrogen
ANASTROZOLE, LETROZOLE AND EXEMESTANE IN COMPARISON
The main difference is that anastrozole and letrozole are non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, while exemestane is a steroidal aromatase inhibitor.
Simply put, this means that anastrozole and letrozole anesthetize the aromatase enzyme while exemestane kills the aromatase enzyme
(The enzyme is reproduced by the body)
GENERAL COMPARISON
Property Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femara) Exemestane (Aromasin) Type Non-steroidal, reversible Non-steroidal, reversible Steroidal, irreversible Estrogen Suppression ~50–70% (dose dependent) ~80–98% (very potent) ~65–85% (irreversible) Half-Life ~48 hrs ~40–60 hrs ~24–27 hrs Rebound Risk Medium if stopped fast High (sharp increase) Low (enzyme destroyed) Titration Precision High (easy microdose) Moderate to difficult Low (fixed dose tabs) Bone Impact Mild (long-term) moderate to severe moderate Lipid impact Mild, but could affect HDL Moderate to severe moderate Onset of Suppression ~24 hours Within hours ~24 hours (stronger than Anastrozole) Peak Suppression ~2–4 days ~2–3 days ~2–3 days
PRICES
Source Anastrozole Price (1mg) Letrozole Price (2.5mg) Exemestane Price (25mg) Pharma (Brand) $5–$10 $8–$15 $10–$20 Generic (Indian) $0.50–$1.50 $1–$3 $1–$4 UGL (Chinese) $0.20–$0.50 $0.30–$1 $0.30–$1
SIDE EFFECTS
Side Effect Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femera) Exemestane (Aromasin) Hot flashes Common Common Common Joint pain Moderate Moderate to severe Mild to moderate Fatigue Mild to moderate Moderate Mild to moderate Bone density loss Mild (long-term use) More severe if misused Moderate (monitor needed) Nausea Mild Mild to moderate Mild Mood changes Possible Possible Possible Headache Occasionally Occasionally Occasionally Increased cholesterol Mild Moderate to severe Moderate Muscle pain Mild Moderate Mild Exemestane is harsher on hair because of its androgenic metabolite, 17-β-hydroxyexemestane.
I’d recommend adding something like ru58841 if you choose exemestane.
(That said, hair loss from exemestane only happens if you’re genetically prone to it)
Side effects like losing cognitive abilities only occur when your estrogen is under 10 pg/mL for a longer period of time
this and hair loss were the side effects I was afraid of the most, but as long as you know what youre doing, you don't have to worry about them
Here is a study that proves Ais are safe when it comes to influencing cognitive abilities
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20421333
Also, Ais can increase levels of endogenous Testosterone production in men by 30-60% which is a lot
The biggest downside of non-steroidal Ai's is the possible estrogen rebound
Estrogen rebound is a phenomenon that occurs when the body experiences an increase in estrogen levels after discontinuing or reducing the dosage of aromatase inhibitors like Anastrozole or Letrozole.
This rebound effect happens because these AIs suppress the production of estrogen, but once the AI is stopped, estrogen levels rise temporarily as the body's natural production resumes.
This abrupt rise in the body’s natural production of estrogen could lead to premature closure of growth plates, potentially impacting final height.
Missing a few doses of a non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors could cause that, so be careful when using one
rebound can be strongly reduced by tapering off slowly instead of stopping suddenly
but in comparison to exemestane, letrozole and Anastrozole are cheaper and better studied
My personal choice is Exemestane, because it has the least side effects and estrogen rebound isn't a thing
(but like I said, every AI works, just keep E2 at 15-20 pg/mL
and if youre using a non-steroidal one, be careful that you dont forget to take them)
DOSAGE PROTOCOLS AND BLOODWORK
Test your E2 to find the dosage you probably need
1 week into your Ai you should do another blood test to see if you should adjust the dose
You want to Target blood estradiol levels of 15–20 pg/mL and never go under 10 pg/mL
(for reference, normal estradiol levels for teenagers are around 20-50 pg/mL)
If you can't do blood tests, youre basically playing russian roulette, so be careful
in that scenario start a low dose, for example 6,25mg of Exemestane and adjust the dose slowly on how you feel and symptoms you experience
symptoms of low estrogen
Sudden joint pain/dryness
Drop in libido or morning erections
Brain fog, mood drop, irritability
Dry skin or hair shedding increase
Unexplained fatigue
if these occure, lower the dose immediately
symptoms of high estrogen
Puffy face/water retention
Fat gain on hips/chest
Gynecomastia or nipple sensitivity
Emotional volatility or crying easily
Chronic bloating
if these occure you should up the dose
Also, here is an overview, how much different dosages suppress your estrogen
Anastrozole:
0.5 mg → ~50–60% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~80–85% E2 suppression
5 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression (plateau)
Letrozole:
0.25 mg → ~60–65% E2 suppression
0.5 mg → ~75–80% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression
2.5 mg → ~90–95% E2 suppression
Exemestane:
6.25 mg → ~30–35% E2 suppression
12.5 mg → ~55–60% E2 suppression
25 mg → ~85–95% E2 suppression
Avoid over suppression (estrogen crash) and Monitor symptoms and do bloodwork.
BlOODWORK
(budget friendly)
Test Estradiol (E2)
Why: Directly shows if your estrogen is in your target range (~15–20 pg/ml).
When:
before the start to calculate the dose you need and then check again 1 week after the start
If everything is correct check 1 month later to see if its stable
then every 8-10 weeks
Total Testosterone + Free Testosterone
Why: AI can raise testosterone; high T can cause secondary effects (acne, aggression, libido swings).
When: Same time as E2 checks.
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
Why: AI-induced changes in T and E2 affect SHBG, which changes free T availability.
When: every 8-12 weeks Alongside T/E2 checks.
Lipid Panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)
Why: Low E2 can lower HDL and raise LDL → cardiovascular risk.
When: Every 3 months.
Liver Enzymes (ALT, AST)
Why: Ais is metabolized in the liver; rare but possible liver stress.
When: Every 3 months or if symptoms appear.
(important if you drink alcohol)
Bone Health (long-term)
Why: Chronically low E2 can reduce bone density.
When: DEXA scan after 12+ months if running AI long-term.
(optional, but would be good)
simply put together
the baseline test would be:
E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG, Lipid Panel, ALT/AST
around 1 week after AI start:
E2 (sensitive) (optional Total T)
then E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG
every 8-10 weeks and lipids + liver enzymes every 3 months
You can do blood tests in private labs
IMPORTANT NOTES AND TIPS
The time when you take your Ai is not important (should still be around the same time)
But taking your Ai with a meal is
(alternatively, you can take your ai with a tablespoon of olive oil)
Storage:
Dry location with an ideal temperature of 15–25°C and no sun exposure
(just put it in your drawer)
Hormones return to baseline within 2–4 weeks after you stop taking your ai
weird, but don't eat Grapefruits and don't drink Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that block the liver enzyme CYP3A4, which helps break down many drugs, including aromatase inhibitors.
This blockage can cause the ai to build up in your blood, and with that increase the risk of side effects
CLINICAL STUDIES OF HEIGHT INCREASE WITH AIS
View attachment 4005487
STUDY https://ijpeonline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1687-9856-2015-4
Aromatase inhibitors Alone
Boys with idiopathic short stature or delayed puberty treated with anastrozole (AI) showed around 5 cm increase in predicted adult height by delaying growth plate closure
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16189252
Growth Hormone (HGH) Alone:
This study looked at kids with idiopathic short stature (ISS), meaning normal GH levels but short height.
HGH treatment increased adult height by an average of 4–6 cm compared to untreated children.
STUDY https://umraniyepediatri.com/storage/upload/pdfs/1732279204-en.pdf
Combination Therapy (AI + HGH):
combining growth hormone with aromatase inhibitors in adolescent boys with idiopathic short stature led to an average adult height increase of about 6 to 9 cm.
STUDY https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/110/9/e2871/8125692?login=false
HOPEFUL
Boys grow 2.13 cm in average after the age of 18 without anything
a study shows, that on average, boys grew an additional 2.13 cm between ages 18 and 27, with some increasing by as much as 7 cm
absolutely hopeful study
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6638938
AIS IN CONTEXT OF BODYBUILDING
View attachment 4007910
i dont want this topic to be left out completely, but i will just cover the most important things
because of higher testosterone levels, the body converts more testosterone to estrogen
Ais can help to control estrogen levels during steroid cycles,
preventing side effects like water retention, bloating, and gynecomastia.
They’re used to maintain a healthy testosterone-to-estrogen balance, which supports better muscle gains, mood, and overall performance.
Additionally, by limiting estrogen, AIs can reduce fat storage and help bodybuilders achieve a leaner, more defined physique.
When Ais come to play in bodybuilding
if your Estradiol is too high and you experience side effects like
-Gyno
-Water retention
-Severe acne
-Mood swings (irritability or depression)
At High Doses or for Estrogen-Sensitive Users
some users don't need one even with +500 mg test a week
while some require an AI even with just 250 mg/week
(At ~500 mg testosterone a week most need an AI)
During Contest Prep
Ais reduce water retention, many bodybuilders use that to achieve a more defined and dryer look
Post-Cycle therapy (PCT)
After a steroid cycle to restore natural testosterone production
Often combined with SERMs (Clomid, Nolvadex)
SPECIAL TOPICS
AI Resistance
true resistance to aromatase inhibitors in men is very rare, but possible
In bodybuilding “resistance” usually means underdosing,
poor absorption of the product, or genetic differences in aromatase activity
In practice:
If estrogen stays high despite seemingly adequate AI dosing,
first rule out fake/underdosed product and high androgen load before assuming true resistance
Many UGL AIs are underdosed
Buy from tested sources (Janoshik reports).
and see how much impact they have on your E2 via bloodwork
Myths about estrogen
Myth 1: “Lower estrogen = more muscle gains.”
Truth: Too little estrogen impairs strength, recovery, joint health, and IGF-1 signaling, all critical for muscle growth.
Myth 2: “Estrogen is bad for men and should be eliminated completely.”
Truth: Estrogen plays important roles in men, including bone haelth, brain function, and regulating libido
Myth 3: “If you don’t feel symptoms, your estrogen is fine.”
Truth: Some people have no noticeable symptoms until E2 is way out of range, that's why blood tests are so important
(for example, my E2 was at 56 pg/mL and i didn't notice anything)
CONCLUSION
Ais work by lowering estrogen, which delays the closing of your growth plates, giving you more time to grow taller and with that
are a great tool that could give you another 1-6cm, depending on your bone age
(keep in mind that if youre 5'7 at 16 or older with a similar bone age, nothing except LL will bring you to 6'0)
The younger your bone age, the more you can grow through all of this
even tough they are different, the type of Ai you use doesnt really matter
but understanding how they work does
So, while AIs can help extend your growth window, they’re not some magic pill, get your bloodwork done and dont be a retard
if i forget anything you want to know, just tell me
other threads i strongly recommend reading
Another guide on HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/theore...omatase-inhibitor-for-pubertymaxxing.1061735/
Heightmaxxing experience with HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/coveri...xperience-results-tips-and-struggles.1172898/
About HGH
https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
hope we all ascend
-renos
@Zagro @Mainlander @MyDreamIsToBe183CM
When it comes to heightmaxxing people always recommend the combination of HGH and an AI
but what even are Aromatase Inhibitors?
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Aromatase inhibitors!
read this guide if you want to gain knowledge about HGH → https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
THE ROLE OF ESTROGEN WHEN IT COMES TO HEIGHT
Human linear growth occurs at the epiphyseal (growth) plates of long bones, which are zones of cartilage undergoing endochondral ossification.
These plates consist of:
Resting zone: reserves of chondrocytes
Proliferative zone: active cell division
Hypertrophic zone: cell enlargement and mineralization
View attachment 4004032
So, bone lengthening continues until the growth plate closes, which marks the end of height increase.
This closure process is triggered by estrogen
How?
Estrogen closes growth plates by binding to estrogen receptor alpha on chondrocytes, pushing them to mature faster while depleting the reserve of stem-like cells that keep the plate active once these cells mature too quickly, the growth plate runs out of new cells that can make more bone length.
Estrogen also makes the plate release signals that pull in blood vessels, which bring bone building cells
These cells replace the last bits of cartilage with solid bone.
When that happens, the growth plate turns into a thin bony line, and you can’t get any taller.
So make sure your plates are open before you take action
you can confirm this through an x-ray of your hand or knee
The younger your bone age, the more potential you have to grow
ideally it should be younger than 16, but even after that you could grow a few more cm
but once plates are closed, Limb lenghtening is the only way to increase height other than fixing posture and wearing shoe-lifts
WHAT ARE AROMATASE INHIBITORS?
The story starts back in the 1950s and 60s when scientists first figured out how estrogen is made in the body.
They realized that if you could block the aromatase enzyme, you could lower estrogen levels and potentially slow down some type of cancers
In the 1970s, the first aromatase inhibitors were developed. These early drugs, like aminoglutethimide, weren’t very selective and had a lot of side effects.
They worked by binding tightly to the enzyme and basically breaking it, but because they weren’t very specific, patients often had issues.
Then, during the 1980s and early 90s, researchers worked on making better inhibitors.
Nonsteroidal ones came along, such as fadrozole and vorozole, which were safer and more targeted.
The big breakthrough happened in the 1990s: anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane were invented
These drugs were more effective, had fewer side effects, and became the new standard treatment for hormone-sensitive breast cancer
They’re still widely used today because they work well and patients tolerate them better than older drugs.
Aromatase inhibitors also come to play for treating male hypogonadism or delaying puberty
(and with that being able to grow for a longer period of time)
Aromatase inhibitors are compounds that block or kill the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen.
Aromatase is a cytochrome P450 enzyme, encoded bythe CYP19A1 gene.
It catalyzes the aromatization of the A-ring ofandrogens, specifically:
Testosterone into Estradiol and Androstenedione intoEstrone
(Estrogen refers to a group of hormones that include estradiol, estrone, and estriol, with estradiol being the most potent and prevalent)
By lowering estrogen levels, AIs can delay epiphyseal fusion, extending the window for longitudinal bone growth
The Aromatization Reaction (Biochemistry)
At the molecular level, aromatase performs a three-stepoxidation of the androgen substrate’s A-ring:
Hydroxylation of the 19-methyl group (C19).
Conversion to a formyl group.
Aromatization of the A-ring, forming an aromaticphenol (the hallmark of estrogen).
This process is NADPH-dependent, and localiezd in the endoplasmic reticulum of cells
By taking an aromatase inhibitor we can block this process leading to less estrogen
ANASTROZOLE, LETROZOLE AND EXEMESTANE IN COMPARISON
The main difference is that anastrozole and letrozole are non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors, while exemestane is a steroidal aromatase inhibitor.
Simply put, this means that anastrozole and letrozole anesthetize the aromatase enzyme while exemestane kills the aromatase enzyme
(The enzyme is reproduced by the body)
GENERAL COMPARISON
Property Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femara) Exemestane (Aromasin) Type Non-steroidal, reversible Non-steroidal, reversible Steroidal, irreversible Estrogen Suppression ~50–70% (dose dependent) ~80–98% (very potent) ~65–85% (irreversible) Half-Life ~48 hrs ~40–60 hrs ~24–27 hrs Rebound Risk Medium if stopped fast High (sharp increase) Low (enzyme destroyed) Titration Precision High (easy microdose) Moderate to difficult Low (fixed dose tabs) Bone Impact Mild (long-term) moderate to severe moderate Lipid impact Mild, but could affect HDL Moderate to severe moderate Onset of Suppression ~24 hours Within hours ~24 hours (stronger than Anastrozole) Peak Suppression ~2–4 days ~2–3 days ~2–3 days
PRICES
Source Anastrozole Price (1mg) Letrozole Price (2.5mg) Exemestane Price (25mg) Pharma (Brand) $5–$10 $8–$15 $10–$20 Generic (Indian) $0.50–$1.50 $1–$3 $1–$4 UGL (Chinese) $0.20–$0.50 $0.30–$1 $0.30–$1
SIDE EFFECTS
Side Effect Anastrozole (Arimidex) Letrozole (Femera) Exemestane (Aromasin) Hot flashes Common Common Common Joint pain Moderate Moderate to severe Mild to moderate Fatigue Mild to moderate Moderate Mild to moderate Bone density loss Mild (long-term use) More severe if misused Moderate (monitor needed) Nausea Mild Mild to moderate Mild Mood changes Possible Possible Possible Headache Occasionally Occasionally Occasionally Increased cholesterol Mild Moderate to severe Moderate Muscle pain Mild Moderate Mild Exemestane is harsher on hair because of its androgenic metabolite, 17-β-hydroxyexemestane.
I’d recommend adding something like ru58841 if you choose exemestane.
(That said, hair loss from exemestane only happens if you’re genetically prone to it)
Side effects like losing cognitive abilities only occur when your estrogen is under 10 pg/mL for a longer period of time
this and hair loss were the side effects I was afraid of the most, but as long as you know what youre doing, you don't have to worry about them
Here is a study that proves Ais are safe when it comes to influencing cognitive abilities
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20421333
Also, Ais can increase levels of endogenous Testosterone production in men by 30-60% which is a lot
The biggest downside of non-steroidal Ai's is the possible estrogen rebound
Estrogen rebound is a phenomenon that occurs when the body experiences an increase in estrogen levels after discontinuing or reducing the dosage of aromatase inhibitors like Anastrozole or Letrozole.
This rebound effect happens because these AIs suppress the production of estrogen, but once the AI is stopped, estrogen levels rise temporarily as the body's natural production resumes.
This abrupt rise in the body’s natural production of estrogen could lead to premature closure of growth plates, potentially impacting final height.
Missing a few doses of a non-steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors could cause that, so be careful when using one
rebound can be strongly reduced by tapering off slowly instead of stopping suddenly
but in comparison to exemestane, letrozole and Anastrozole are cheaper and better studied
My personal choice is Exemestane, because it has the least side effects and estrogen rebound isn't a thing
(but like I said, every AI works, just keep E2 at 15-20 pg/mL
and if youre using a non-steroidal one, be careful that you dont forget to take them)
DOSAGE PROTOCOLS AND BLOODWORK
Test your E2 to find the dosage you probably need
1 week into your Ai you should do another blood test to see if you should adjust the dose
You want to Target blood estradiol levels of 15–20 pg/mL and never go under 10 pg/mL
(for reference, normal estradiol levels for teenagers are around 20-50 pg/mL)
If you can't do blood tests, youre basically playing russian roulette, so be careful
in that scenario start a low dose, for example 6,25mg of Exemestane and adjust the dose slowly on how you feel and symptoms you experience
symptoms of low estrogen
Sudden joint pain/dryness
Drop in libido or morning erections
Brain fog, mood drop, irritability
Dry skin or hair shedding increase
Unexplained fatigue
if these occure, lower the dose immediately
symptoms of high estrogen
Puffy face/water retention
Fat gain on hips/chest
Gynecomastia or nipple sensitivity
Emotional volatility or crying easily
Chronic bloating
if these occure you should up the dose
Also, here is an overview, how much different dosages suppress your estrogen
Anastrozole:
0.5 mg → ~50–60% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~80–85% E2 suppression
5 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression (plateau)
Letrozole:
0.25 mg → ~60–65% E2 suppression
0.5 mg → ~75–80% E2 suppression
1 mg → ~85–90% E2 suppression
2.5 mg → ~90–95% E2 suppression
Exemestane:
6.25 mg → ~30–35% E2 suppression
12.5 mg → ~55–60% E2 suppression
25 mg → ~85–95% E2 suppression
Avoid over suppression (estrogen crash) and Monitor symptoms and do bloodwork.
BlOODWORK
(budget friendly)
Test Estradiol (E2)
Why: Directly shows if your estrogen is in your target range (~15–20 pg/ml).
When:
before the start to calculate the dose you need and then check again 1 week after the start
If everything is correct check 1 month later to see if its stable
then every 8-10 weeks
Total Testosterone + Free Testosterone
Why: AI can raise testosterone; high T can cause secondary effects (acne, aggression, libido swings).
When: Same time as E2 checks.
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
Why: AI-induced changes in T and E2 affect SHBG, which changes free T availability.
When: every 8-12 weeks Alongside T/E2 checks.
Lipid Panel (Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides)
Why: Low E2 can lower HDL and raise LDL → cardiovascular risk.
When: Every 3 months.
Liver Enzymes (ALT, AST)
Why: Ais is metabolized in the liver; rare but possible liver stress.
When: Every 3 months or if symptoms appear.
(important if you drink alcohol)
Bone Health (long-term)
Why: Chronically low E2 can reduce bone density.
When: DEXA scan after 12+ months if running AI long-term.
(optional, but would be good)
simply put together
the baseline test would be:
E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG, Lipid Panel, ALT/AST
around 1 week after AI start:
E2 (sensitive) (optional Total T)
then E2 (sensitive), Total T, Free T, SHBG
every 8-10 weeks and lipids + liver enzymes every 3 months
You can do blood tests in private labs
IMPORTANT NOTES AND TIPS
The time when you take your Ai is not important (should still be around the same time)
But taking your Ai with a meal is
(alternatively, you can take your ai with a tablespoon of olive oil)
Storage:
Dry location with an ideal temperature of 15–25°C and no sun exposure
(just put it in your drawer)
Hormones return to baseline within 2–4 weeks after you stop taking your ai
weird, but don't eat Grapefruits and don't drink Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit and its juice contain compounds that block the liver enzyme CYP3A4, which helps break down many drugs, including aromatase inhibitors.
This blockage can cause the ai to build up in your blood, and with that increase the risk of side effects
CLINICAL STUDIES OF HEIGHT INCREASE WITH AIS
View attachment 4005487
STUDY https://ijpeonline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1687-9856-2015-4
Aromatase inhibitors Alone
Boys with idiopathic short stature or delayed puberty treated with anastrozole (AI) showed around 5 cm increase in predicted adult height by delaying growth plate closure
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16189252
Growth Hormone (HGH) Alone:
This study looked at kids with idiopathic short stature (ISS), meaning normal GH levels but short height.
HGH treatment increased adult height by an average of 4–6 cm compared to untreated children.
STUDY https://umraniyepediatri.com/storage/upload/pdfs/1732279204-en.pdf
Combination Therapy (AI + HGH):
combining growth hormone with aromatase inhibitors in adolescent boys with idiopathic short stature led to an average adult height increase of about 6 to 9 cm.
STUDY https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/110/9/e2871/8125692?login=false
HOPEFUL
Boys grow 2.13 cm in average after the age of 18 without anything
a study shows, that on average, boys grew an additional 2.13 cm between ages 18 and 27, with some increasing by as much as 7 cm
absolutely hopeful study
STUDY https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6638938
AIS IN CONTEXT OF BODYBUILDING
View attachment 4007910
i dont want this topic to be left out completely, but i will just cover the most important things
because of higher testosterone levels, the body converts more testosterone to estrogen
Ais can help to control estrogen levels during steroid cycles,
preventing side effects like water retention, bloating, and gynecomastia.
They’re used to maintain a healthy testosterone-to-estrogen balance, which supports better muscle gains, mood, and overall performance.
Additionally, by limiting estrogen, AIs can reduce fat storage and help bodybuilders achieve a leaner, more defined physique.
When Ais come to play in bodybuilding
if your Estradiol is too high and you experience side effects like
-Gyno
-Water retention
-Severe acne
-Mood swings (irritability or depression)
At High Doses or for Estrogen-Sensitive Users
some users don't need one even with +500 mg test a week
while some require an AI even with just 250 mg/week
(At ~500 mg testosterone a week most need an AI)
During Contest Prep
Ais reduce water retention, many bodybuilders use that to achieve a more defined and dryer look
Post-Cycle therapy (PCT)
After a steroid cycle to restore natural testosterone production
Often combined with SERMs (Clomid, Nolvadex)
SPECIAL TOPICS
AI Resistance
true resistance to aromatase inhibitors in men is very rare, but possible
In bodybuilding “resistance” usually means underdosing,
poor absorption of the product, or genetic differences in aromatase activity
In practice:
If estrogen stays high despite seemingly adequate AI dosing,
first rule out fake/underdosed product and high androgen load before assuming true resistance
Many UGL AIs are underdosed
Buy from tested sources (Janoshik reports).
and see how much impact they have on your E2 via bloodwork
Myths about estrogen
Myth 1: “Lower estrogen = more muscle gains.”
Truth: Too little estrogen impairs strength, recovery, joint health, and IGF-1 signaling, all critical for muscle growth.
Myth 2: “Estrogen is bad for men and should be eliminated completely.”
Truth: Estrogen plays important roles in men, including bone haelth, brain function, and regulating libido
Myth 3: “If you don’t feel symptoms, your estrogen is fine.”
Truth: Some people have no noticeable symptoms until E2 is way out of range, that's why blood tests are so important
(for example, my E2 was at 56 pg/mL and i didn't notice anything)
CONCLUSION
Ais work by lowering estrogen, which delays the closing of your growth plates, giving you more time to grow taller and with that
are a great tool that could give you another 1-6cm, depending on your bone age
(keep in mind that if youre 5'7 at 16 or older with a similar bone age, nothing except LL will bring you to 6'0)
The younger your bone age, the more you can grow through all of this
even tough they are different, the type of Ai you use doesnt really matter
but understanding how they work does
So, while AIs can help extend your growth window, they’re not some magic pill, get your bloodwork done and dont be a retard
if i forget anything you want to know, just tell me
other threads i strongly recommend reading
Another guide on HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/theore...omatase-inhibitor-for-pubertymaxxing.1061735/
Heightmaxxing experience with HGH + Ai
https://looksmax.org/threads/coveri...xperience-results-tips-and-struggles.1172898/
About HGH
https://looksmax.org/threads/hgh-101-everything-you-need-to-know.1423722/
hope we all ascend
-renos
@Zagro @Mainlander @MyDreamIsToBe183CM
Bro I don’t think ai will do shit for you if you keep e2 at 15-20pq/ml. My natural e2 is at 10 pq/ml and I would assume my bone age is aging normally.It isn't that simple. Many people get high/low E2 symptoms at differing E2 levels. It's almost never worth it.
The study you cite only talks about cognitive performance and E2 is extremely important for brain health and brain development nonetheless.
Estrogen literally alleviates the neurotoxic effects of testosterone directly.
View attachment 4008552
The neuroprotective actions of oestradiol and oestrogen receptors - Nature Reviews Neuroscience
Recent discoveries have shown that both hormonal and brain-derived oestradiol have neuroprotective effects. This Review provides a comprehensive review of the multiple cell types, receptors and signalling cascades that underlie oestradiol-mediated neuroprotection.www.nature.com
They are better indeed. Exemestane is much harsher on hair due to its androgenic metabolite 17-β-hydroxyexemestane which OP failed to mention even though it's extremely important to note when choosing an AI.
