ANASTROZOLE
Background and Date of Approval
Anastrozole is an anticancer medication approved for medical use on 27 December 1995.
Uses
Anastrozole Tablet has been developed to treat early and advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have not responded to other anticancer therapies. It is also indicated as a second-line therapy to prevent hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and to treat male gynaecomastia.
How is it administered?
Anastrozole is available as a film-coated tablets in the dose 1mg that is indicated for oral intake daily, with or without meals.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Anastrozole Tablet are hot flashes, stiff joints, tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome, hair thinning, rash, nausea, vaginal dryness, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, high blood cholesterol levels, increased sweating, bone pain and musculoskeletal pain. Call your healthcare provider if you experience persistent chest pain, numbness or allergic reactions after taking this tablet.
Warnings
Anastrozole Tablet is not recommended for premenopausal women and women who are pregnant/breastfeeding. During the Anastrozole Tablet treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood count, serum calcium, vitamin D, lipid profile, liver function tests and bone mineral density to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have or had lung problem, heart problem, liver disease or kidney problem.
Precautions
Anastrozole Tablet may cause fertility problems in men and women. This Tablet is not recommended for pregnant women due to its ability to cause fetal harm. Inform your healthcare provider before starting this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. Pregnancy testing is recommended for women of reproductive potential within at least 7 days before starting Anastrozole treatment. Discuss effective contraceptive methods to use during and for 3 weeks after the last dose of Anastrozole. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Anastrozole.
Word of Advice
Anastrozole can cause tiredness, dizziness and excessive sleepiness. If you feel tired or weak, you should avoid driving or handling machines.
References
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, [Revised on 18th Feb 2022] [Accessed on 26th Oct 2022], https://www.astrazeneca.ca/content/dam/az-ca/downloads/productinformation/arimidex-product-monograph-en.pdf KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Estrogens, Progestins and Contraceptives, 8th Edition, 2019, 330-353. Azabelle Peters, Prasanna Tadi, Aromatase inhibitors, StatPearls [Internet], [Revised on Jul 2022] [Accessed on 26th Oct 2022], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557856/
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anastrozole Tablet used as a monotherapy to treat cancer?
Anastrozole Tablet is prescribed as an adjunct to other anticancer treatments (chemotherapy and surgery) to treat hormone receptor positive early and advanced breast cancer.
Is it safe to drink coffee while on treatment with Anastrozole Tablet?
Anastrozole Tablet may cause menopause-like symptoms such as hot flashes, sweating and headache. Drinking caffeine may worsen these symptoms and hence caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes are not recommended during Anastrozole treatment.
How are patients monitored during treatment with Anastrozole?
Healthcare providers will conduct physical examination and blood tests to evaluate bone mineral density before prescribing and during treatment with Anastrozole. Women of reproductive potential will be tested for pregnancy before starting this treatment.
Who should not take Anastrozole Tablet?
Patients who are allergic to Anastrozole or its ingredients and pregnant women should not take Anastrozole Tablet.
How to manage side effects of Anastrozole Tablet?
Pay attention to your healthcare providerâs instructions on proper usage of this medication, maintain adequate rest and nutrition and inform your healthcare provider in case of any unusual symptoms while on treatment with Anastrozole.
What should you do if you missed a dose of Anastrozole Tablet?
If you have missed a dose of Anastrazole Tablet, take the missed dose as soon as you remember if it has been more than 12 hours. Skip this dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
How to store Anastrozole Tablet?
Store Anastrozole Tablet at room temperature in its original pack, away from the reach of children.