Related to this topic: Equipment | Books | Your Experience | Other resources | Glossaries
Print options:
Other options:
(what's this?)
Anastrozole
|
About anastrozole
| Type of medicine | Hormone antagonist |
| Used for | Treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women |
| Also called | Arimidex |
| Available as | Tablets |
Some breast cancers need the hormone oestrogen to grow. In women who have had their menopause, the main source of oestrogen is through the change of androgens (sex hormones) into oestrogens. Anastrozole works by preventing this change therefore reducing the amount of oestrogen in the body.
Before taking anastrozole
Before taking anastrozole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems
- If you have not gone through the menopause
- If you have a family history of osteoporosis (bone thinning)
- If you are taking oestrogen-containing medicines, for example hormone replacement therapy
- If you are taking tamoxifen
- Anastrozole should not be given to children
How to take anastrozole
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor
- Try to take your tablet at the same time each day
- If you are sick shortly after taking a dose, or you forget a dose, check with your doctor. You will be told whether to take the dose again, or wait until the next dose is due.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Do not stop taking anastrozole even if you are feeling well, unless your doctor tells you
- Before having any kind of medical treatment, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, surgeon, dentist, or other medical professional, that you are taking anastrozole
- Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored
- Anastrozole lowers the levels of female hormones in the body which may lead to thinning of the bones. This can reduce bone strength therefore you may be required to have bone density tests before and during your treatment.
Can anastrozole cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Drowsiness, tiredness, loss of strength | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. Avoid alcohol; it will increase any feelings of drowsiness. |
| Nausea | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. |
| Vomiting | Drink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. |
| Diarrhoea | Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor. |
Other side-effects include hot flushes, thinning of the hair, vaginal dryness, vaginal bleeding (usually in the first few weeks of treatment), anorexia, loss of appetite, joint pain or stiffness, skin rashes, allergic reactions and reduced bone strength . If you experience these or any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store anastrozole
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
|
| © EMIS 2007 | DocID: 3784 |
DocRef: dils3789 |
Last Updated: 10 Jan 2007 |
Date of Next Review: 9 Jan 2009 |
Version: 22 |
Disclaimer: Patient UK has no control of the content of the above links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient UK.
Related pages in Patient UK
Your Experience (^ top of page)
Please add your experience about this condition / medicine
View patient experiences and discussions about this condition / medicine (5 there)Other - Useful resources (^ top of page)
Pictures, diagrams, photos, images, etc.Evidence based medicine
Online textbooks and journals
A-Z of UK Guidelines
A-Z of Online Videos
Medline
Other good health sites
Medical equipment products related to this topic (^ top of page)
Pill/Tablet Equipment
Books related to this topic (^ top of page)

Want to search some more? Use the Google Search box below to search our site.

Would you like to try our advanced on-line knowledge support system designed to provide professionals with relevant up to date information about recognition and management of disease or take the Mentor Challenge?
