Anastrozole
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DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
YES
Teratogenicity
N/A
Pharmaceutical Class
Aromatase Inhibitor
Anastrozole
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
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
What is Anastrozole used for?
Anastrozole is a medication used to treat certain types of breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause. It's used in several ways: * **After surgery:** To help prevent breast cancer from returning after surgery for early-stage cancer where the cancer cells have hormone receptors (hormone receptor-positive). *Hormone receptors* are proteins on cancer cells that allow hormones like estrogen to fuel their growth. * **For advanced cancer:** As the first treatment for advanced or metastatic (spread to other parts of the body) breast cancer where the cancer cells have hormone receptors (or it is unknown if they have them). *Metastatic* means the cancer has spread beyond its original location. * **After another treatment fails:** To treat advanced breast cancer when another drug, tamoxifen, stops working. Anastrozole is unlikely to help if the cancer doesn't have hormone receptors or if the cancer didn't respond to tamoxifen.
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.
How does one know if Anastrozole is working?
The effectiveness of Anastrozole is monitored through regular imaging tests, tumor marker evaluations, and physical assessments by your doctor. Symptom improvement, such as reduced pain or tumor shrinkage, may also indicate that the medication is working.
Directions for Use
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.
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.
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 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.
Warnings and Precautions
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.
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.
Can I take Anastrozole with vitamins or supplements?
Vitamins or supplements like calcium and vitamin D may be recommended to manage the risk of osteoporosis associated with Anastrozole. However, avoid herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort without consulting your doctor, as they may interfere with the medication.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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