Anastrozole
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Molecule Summary
| Uses | Breast cancer |
| Therapy | Anti-Neoplastic |
| Side Effects | Reduced appetite, nausea, diarrhoea, headache |
Medicines
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Molecule Description
Anastrozole is a prescription medication. It is primarily used in treating breast cancer in post-menopausal women. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, and Anastrozole helps slow down or halt the growth of cancer cells by reducing the levels of oestrogen in the body.
This medicine works by blocking the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for oestrogen production. Since some types of breast cancer depend on oestrogen to grow, lowering its levels aids in controlling the spread of the disease. Anastrozole is typically prescribed as part of a long-term treatment plan, and its benefits are maximised when taken regularly according to your doctor's instructions.
You should take Anastrozole exactly as prescribed. The dose and duration will be determined by your doctor based on your condition. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, preferably after meals to minimise stomach upset. Do not skip doses and never take more than the recommended amount. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose.
Like all medications, Anastrozole may cause some side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include hot flushes, joint pain, tiredness, nausea, or weakness. Inform your doctor if any side effects persist or become bothersome. Regular follow-ups and health check-ups are crucial while using this medicine to monitor your response and overall health.
Before starting treatment with Anastrozole, inform your doctor if you have any history of liver or kidney problems, osteoporosis, heart conditions, or if you are taking other medicines. This medicine is not intended for use in pre-menopausal women, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. Following your doctor's advice, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can support your recovery and enhance treatment outcomes.
Uses
Anastrozole is used in post-menopausal women to treat breast cancer.
Contraindications
When should one not use Anastrozole
- If you are known to be allergic to Anastrozole or any of the ingredients of this medicine.
- If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Reduced appetite
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Excessive sleepiness
- Generalized weakness
- Skin rashes
- Hair thinning
- Hot flushes
- Joint pain
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You suffer from liver or kidney diseases, then Anastrozole should be used with caution.
- You have any disease that affects the strength of your bones.
- You are taking a medication that contains tamoxifen or estrogen.
- Your periods have not yet stopped, and you have not yet gone through menopause. Your doctor might ask you to confirm your menopause by performing some blood tests if it cannot be clinically confirmed.
- You have a known hereditary galactose intolerance.
- You are children or adolescents.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Anastrozole works by reducing the level of a natural female hormone, oestrogen, that is produced in the body. Thus, stopping the growth of the cancer cells, which depend on oestrogen for their growth.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Anastrozole may interact with other medicines. Discuss all the medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking with your doctor. Also, inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or a vaccination scheduled.
- It is advisable to avoid Tamoxifen, another medicine used to treat breast cancer or other estrogen-containing therapies, while taking Anastrozole as it will reduce the effectiveness of medicines.
Interactions with food items
Anastrozole should be taken with or after having your meals.
Dosage
Overdose
Anastrozole should be taken strictly as prescribed by the doctor, in the dose and frequency specified. In case of accidental overdose, consult your doctor immediately or visit a nearby hospital.
Missed a Dose
Missing a dose of Anastrozole may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. If you missed a dose of medicine, then take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dose schedule. Do not take a double dose of medicine to compensate for the missed one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Articles
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References:
- Anastrozole 1 mg film-coated tablets - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc) [Internet]. Medicines.org.uk. 2025 [cited 6 June 2026]
- Anastrozole 1 mg film-coated tablets - Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) - (emc) [Internet]. Medicines.org.uk. 2025 [cited 6 June 2026]
- ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. 2022. NCBI. Aromatase Inhibitors in Men: Effects and Therapeutic Options. [online] [Accessed 6 Jun 2026].
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