Anastrozole
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Aromatase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Anastrozole
Summary
Anastrozole is used to treat breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause. It helps prevent cancer from returning after surgery, treats advanced breast cancer that has spread, and is used when another drug, tamoxifen, stops working.
Anastrozole works by lowering the body's estrogen levels. Estrogen is a hormone that can fuel the growth of some breast cancers. By reducing estrogen, Anastrozole slows or stops the growth of these cancers.
The usual recommended dose of Anastrozole is 1 mg taken orally once a day. Dosage adjustments are not typically required for elderly patients or those with mild to moderate liver or kidney impairment.
Common side effects of Anastrozole include hot flashes, weakness, joint pain, high blood pressure, depression, nausea, rash, osteoporosis, back pain, sleep problems, headaches, bone pain, swelling, and increased cough.
Anastrozole is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, premenopausal women, and individuals allergic to the drug. It is also not recommended for patients with severe liver dysfunction or osteoporosis unless monitored closely.
Indications and Purpose
How does Anastrozole work?
Anastrozole works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which converts androgens into estrogen. By lowering estrogen levels, it deprives hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells of the estrogen they need to grow and multiply.
Is Anastrozole effective?
Yes, clinical studies have shown that Anastrozole effectively reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence and slows the progression of advanced breast cancer. It has been proven to be more effective than tamoxifen in preventing recurrence in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients.
What is Anastrozole?
Anastrozole is a medicine used to treat breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause. It works by lowering the body's estrogen levels. Estrogen is a hormone that can fuel the growth of some breast cancers. By reducing estrogen, anastrozole slows or stops the growth of these cancers. It's used in several ways: after surgery to help prevent cancer from returning (adjuvant treatment); as the first treatment for advanced or spread breast cancer (first-line treatment); or when another drug, tamoxifen, stops working (second-line treatment). It may also be used to prevent breast cancer in women at high risk. * **Menopause:** The time in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently. * **Estrogen:** A female sex hormone. * **Adjuvant treatment:** Treatment given after the main treatment (like surgery) to reduce the risk of cancer returning. * **Metastatic breast cancer:** Breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. * **First-line treatment:** The first treatment used for a condition. * **Second-line treatment:** A treatment used when the first treatment doesn't work.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Anastrozole?
Anastrozole treatment may continue for several years or even longer. It's crucial to keep taking anastrozole even if you feel healthy, and you shouldn't stop unless your doctor advises you to. Anastrozole is a medication, often used to treat certain types of breast cancer. It works by lowering the level of estrogen in the body, which can help slow or stop the growth of some breast cancers that need estrogen to grow. Ignoring your doctor's instructions and stopping the medication prematurely could negatively impact your treatment. Always follow your doctor's recommendations and discuss any concerns you have about your medication.
How do I take Anastrozole?
Anastrozole is taken once a day by mouth. You can take it with or without food; there are no special diet rules.
How long does it take for Anastrozole to start working?
Anastrozole begins lowering estrogen levels shortly after starting treatment, and its effects on tumor growth may take a few weeks to become noticeable. Improvements in symptoms or reductions in tumor size are typically observed over several months of consistent use.
How should I store Anastrozole?
Anastrozole should be stored in its original, tightly closed container at room temperature. Keep it away from heat and moisture (don't store it in the bathroom). Make sure children can't reach it, as many containers aren't childproof. "Room temperature" means the usual temperature in your home. "Excess heat" means temperatures significantly warmer than room temperature. "Moisture" refers to humidity or dampness. Proper storage helps keep the medication safe and effective.
What is the usual dose of Anastrozole?
The usual recommended dose of anastrozole is 1 mg taken orally once a day. Dosage adjustments are generally not required for elderly patients or those with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Anastrozole be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Anastrozole is not recommended while breastfeeding, as it is unknown if the drug passes into breast milk and may harm the baby. Alternative treatments should be considered for nursing mothers.
Can Anastrozole be taken safely while pregnant?
No, Anastrozole is contraindicated during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while on this medication. If pregnancy occurs, consult your doctor immediately.
Can I take Anastrozole with other prescription drugs?
Anastrozole may interact with estrogen-containing medications or tamoxifen, reducing its effectiveness. Inform your doctor about all other prescription drugs you are taking to avoid harmful interactions.
Is Anastrozole safe for the elderly?
Anastrozole may weaken bones, making fractures more likely, especially in older people. Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become fragile and break easily. If you're elderly and taking anastrozole, talk to your doctor about this risk. They can discuss ways to protect your bones, such as diet and exercise changes or medication to strengthen them. It's crucial to take anastrozole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Never adjust your dosage without their guidance.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Anastrozole?
Drinking alcohol in moderation is generally safe, but excessive alcohol may worsen side effects like dizziness or liver strain. Discuss your alcohol consumption with your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Anastrozole?
Yes, exercise is encouraged to improve bone health and reduce side effects like fatigue or weight gain. However, avoid high-impact activities if you are at risk of osteoporosis. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Who should avoid taking Anastrozole?
Anastrozole is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, premenopausal women, and individuals allergic to the drug or its components. It is also not recommended for patients with severe liver dysfunction or osteoporosis unless monitored closely.
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