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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. Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water.
- If you miss a dose don't worry, just 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 to.
- 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 |
| Feeling or being sick | Eat little and often. 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 |
| Hot flushes, thinning of the hair, vaginal dryness, vaginal bleeding (usually in the first few weeks of treatment), weight loss, joint pain, reduced bone strength | If troublesome, speak to your doctor |
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 and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
|
References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Arimidex®, AstraZeneca UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated July 2007, accessed December 2008.
- British National Formulary; 56th Edition (September 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest.
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