Description

Introduction

Anastrozole is a medication used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, which work by blocking the enzyme aromatase, thereby reducing estrogen production in the body.

Lowering estrogen helps slow or stop the growth of certain breast cancers that depend on estrogen.

Why Anastrozole Is Used

Anastrozole is prescribed to:

• Treat early-stage or advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women
• Reduce the risk of cancer recurrence after initial treatment (surgery or radiation)
• Serve as an alternative to tamoxifen in postmenopausal women

Health Conditions Treated

• Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer
• Advanced or metastatic breast cancer dependent on estrogen
• Breast cancer prevention in high-risk postmenopausal women

Symptoms Treated

Anastrozole helps:

• Slow tumor growth
• Reduce recurrence risk in hormone-sensitive breast cancer
• Improve long-term outcomes when combined with other treatments

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Hot flashes
• Fatigue
• Joint or muscle pain (arthralgia/myalgia)
• Nausea
• Headache

Serious Side Effects

• Osteoporosis or bone fractures due to estrogen suppression
• High cholesterol
• Liver enzyme changes
• Rare allergic reactions

Seek medical attention immediately if serious side effects occur, such as severe bone pain, difficulty breathing, or jaundice.

Diagnosis and When Prescribed

Anastrozole is prescribed after:

• Confirming hormone receptor-positive breast cancer via biopsy
• Determining postmenopausal status
• Reviewing liver function and overall health

How to Use Safely

• Take as prescribed, usually once daily with or without food
• Swallow tablets whole with water
• Regularly monitor bone density, liver function, and cholesterol levels
• Report any new or worsening side effects to your doctor
• Do not stop therapy abruptly without medical advice

Prevention & Management Tips

• Maintain bone health with calcium and vitamin D
• Engage in weight-bearing exercises
• Attend regular check-ups and lab tests
• Discuss any other medications with your healthcare provider to avoid interactions

Common Questions

How long does Anastrozole take to work?

• Estrogen levels drop quickly, but cancer recurrence prevention benefits are seen over months to years.

Can premenopausal women take Anastrozole?

• Usually no. Premenopausal women require ovarian suppression for aromatase inhibitors to be effective.

Does Anastrozole cure breast cancer?

• No. It reduces the risk of recurrence and slows progression as part of comprehensive treatment.

Can I take other medications with Anastrozole?

• Some drugs may interact; always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining medications.

Conclusion

Anastrozole is an effective aromatase inhibitor for managing hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Safe use under medical supervision, combined with regular monitoring of bone and liver health, helps ensure effective cancer management and reduces the risk of serious side effects.