What Is Anastrozole?
Anastrozole decreases the levels of estrogen in postmenopausal women. This can reduce the development of certain types of breast tumors, which require estrogen for growth in the body.
Anastrozole can be used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal females. It is usually prescribed to women whose tumors have advanced even though they have taken Tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Soltamox).Anastrozole is also used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Side effects Of Anastrozole
Contact emergency medical assistance. If you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction (hives, breathing problems, and swelling of your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever and sore throat, eye burning, irritation, purple or red skin rash, blisters, as well as peeling),
Anastrozole could decrease the flow of blood into your heart. This is particularly true if you've ever suffered from coronary artery disease (clogged arteries). Get medical attention when you experience recent or worsening chest discomfort or feel exhausted.
Anastrozole may cause serious side effects. Consult your physician immediately in the event of:
- Breathlessness (even when exerting only a little), swelling, rapidly gaining weight,
- Numbness, prickly sensation, tenderness, or numbness in your wrists or hands;
- Signs of a fractured bone—bruising, swelling, and tenderness that gets worse with movement;
- Indications of symptoms of a stroke—sudden weakness or numbness (especially for one leg) and a sudden intense headache or slurred speech. issues with balance or vision.
Common adverse effects of anastrozole could include:
- Sensation of numbness, tingling, or a tickling sensation on your skin
- Hot Flashes;
- Weakness;
- Joint discomfort or stiffness
- Bone pain, danger of fracture
- Swelling in your legs, arms, or feet;
- Sore throat, cough, breathlessness;
- Migraine, back pain;
- Depression, sleep problems (insomnia);
- High blood pressure;
- Nausea, vomiting,
- Rash.
This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Other effects may also be present. Contact your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Anastrozole can reduce blood flow to the heart, especially if you have had any coronary artery disease (clogged blood vessels). Consult a doctor when you experience an increase in or worsening of chest pain or when you feel tired.
Before you Take this Drug
Anastrozole should not be used when you have an allergy to it or if you haven't yet reached menopause.Anastrozole has not been approved for use by men or children.Anastrozole should not be taken when you are also taking Tamoxifen.
Inform your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- Heart issues;
- Coronary arterial disorder (clogged coronary artery disease);
- Excessive cholesterol
- Osteoporosis, or low bone mineral density.
Treatment for hormonal cancer may cause bone loss. There is a higher chance of sustaining a fractured bone during treatment with anastrozole. Talk to your physician about methods to keep your bones in good health.
Although it is unlikely that a postmenopausal woman would have a baby, anastrozole may harm the unborn baby. You may need to pass a negative pregnancy test prior to beginning this treatment. Make sure you are using the most effective contraception if you aren't over menopausal. Continue using birth control for at least three weeks following your final treatment with anastrozole. Consult your physician in the event that you become pregnant.
Don't breastfeed while taking anastrozole or for at least two weeks following the last dose.
How to take Anastrozole?
Follow all instructions on the label of your prescription and read the medication guide or instructions sheets. Follow the medication precisely as directed.
Anastrozole is generally taken once a day. Follow the instructions of your physician for dosage extremely carefully.You can take anastrozole either with or without food.You could be required to continue using this medicine for up to five years. Follow the directions of your doctor.Place it in a cool, dry place far from heat and moisture.
Details on Dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Breast Cancer:
Initial dosage 1 mg, orally consumed every day, once
The duration of treatment: Until the progression of tumors (treatment of breast cancer that is advanced) Unknown (adjuvant treatment for breast cancer that is early)
Uses:
Adjuvant treatment for postmenopausal females who have hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer
First-line treatment for women postmenopausal with hormone receptors positive or hormone receptors that are not known to be locally advanced and metastasizing and metastatic breast cancer;
Second-line treatment of tumors of the breast in postmenopausal women who have cancer progression after Tamoxifen treatment
Detailed Anastrozole Dosage Information
What Happens if I Miss the Dose?
Do not take the medicine for as long as you are able, but avoid your missed dose if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at once.
What Happens If I Overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What Should be Avoided?
Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you understand the effects of anastrozole on your body. The way you react could be affected.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Anastrozole may not perform in the same way if you use it with a hormone medicine (such as hormone replacement therapy, estrogen creams, birth control pill implants, injections, or skin patches, as well as vaginal suppositories or vaginal rings).
Other medications can affect anastrozole, such as prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your physician about the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
