Anastrozole: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage and Precautions
Anastrozole is a prescription drug available as an oral tablet under the brand name Arimidex. It is classified as a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor used in anti-cancer hormone therapy.
Uses of Anastrozole
Used in conjunction with other therapies for early breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
First-line therapy for breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast or to other parts of the body in menopausal women.
Reduces estrogen levels in the body, slowing or stopping the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells.
Side Effects Of Anastrozole
Common side effects include:
Weakness
Hot flashes
Sweating
Stomach pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Constipation
Diarrhea
Heartburn
Weight gain
Muscle pain
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Serious side effects may include:
Chest pain
Swelling and redness in the arm
Rash
Hives
Itching
Shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Precautions Before Taking Anastrozole
Before taking Anastrozole, consult your doctor if:
You are allergic to it or any related medications.
You have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, or blood clots.
Avoid use during pregnancy; effective birth control should be used during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after stopping.
How to Use Anastrozole
Take orally once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day to maintain consistency.
Do not increase dosage or frequency beyond prescribed.
Dosage for Breast Cancer
Anastrozole
Form: Oral tablet
Strength: 1 mg
Arimidex
Form: Oral tablet
Strength: 1 mg
Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older): 1 mg tablet orally.
Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose.
Overdose
Overdosing may lead to severe side effects like bleeding, tissue death and gastritis. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect an overdose.
Interactions
Anastrozole may interact with other drugs, vitamins, or herbs such as tamoxifen and estrogens. Consult your doctor or pharmacist to avoid interactions.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Osteoporosis: Anastrozole can exacerbate osteoporosis; bone mineral density should be monitored.
High cholesterol: Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is advised during treatment.
Heart disease: Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor if you have a history of heart artery blockage.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Anastrozole is contraindicated during pregnancy (category X) and may affect breastfeeding.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC), away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Anastrozole vs Letrozole
Anastrozole
Letrozole
Anastrozole is a prescription drug, available in the form of an oral tablet. This tablet is available as the brand name called Arimidex.
Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor that is used after surgery for the treatment of hormonally responsive breast cancer.
Anastrozole is used in conjunction with other therapies, such as surgery or radiation for the treatment of early breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
This medication is used to treat certain types of breast cancer in women after menopause (such as hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer). It is also used to help prevent cancer recurrence.
