Anastrozole

Anastrozole is a medicine used to treat hormone-positive breast cancer, mainly in postmenopausal women. It works by lowering estrogen levels in the body, helping slow or stop the growth of cancer cells that depend on estrogen.

Anastrozole is not chemotherapy. It is a hormone (endocrine) therapy and is usually taken for long-term treatment as advised by a doctor.

Uses of Anastrozole

Anastrozole is used for:

• Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer
• Early-stage breast cancer after surgery
• Advanced or metastatic breast cancer
• Preventing cancer recurrence in postmenopausal women

How Anastrozole Works

Anastrozole belongs to a group of medicines called aromatase inhibitors.

It works by:

• Blocking aromatase, an enzyme that helps make estrogen
• Lowering estrogen levels in the body
• Slowing or stopping the growth of estrogen-dependent cancer cells

How to Take Anastrozole

• Take Anastrozole exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Usually taken once daily, with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with water
• Take it at the same time every day

Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Common Side Effects

Some people may experience:

• Hot flashes
• Joint or muscle pain
• Weakness or tiredness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Mood changes

These side effects are common and often manageable with medical support.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help)

• Bone thinning or fractures
• High cholesterol levels
• Severe joint pain
• Chest pain or shortness of breath

Safety Precautions

• Pregnancy: Not safe during pregnancy
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended
• Bone Health: Bone density may need monitoring
• Liver: Inform your doctor if you have liver problems
• Heart: Caution in patients with heart disease

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Anastrozole may interact with:

• Estrogen-containing medicines
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Tamoxifen

These can reduce Anastrozole’s effectiveness.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C
• Keep away from moisture and sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use expired tablets

FAQs

Q1. What is Anastrozole used for?
It is used to treat hormone-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Q2. Is Anastrozole chemotherapy?
No. It is a hormone therapy, not chemotherapy.

Q3. How long is Anastrozole taken?
It is often taken for 5 years or as advised by the doctor.

Q4. Can Anastrozole cause bone loss?
Yes. Long-term use may weaken bones, so monitoring is important.

Fact Box

• Drug Name: Anastrozole
• Drug Class: Aromatase inhibitor
• Used For: Hormone-positive breast cancer
• Dose: Once daily