Anastrozole: What is it?

Anastrozole is a medication used to treat breast cancer in women who have gone through menopause. It works by lowering the amount of estrogen in the body, which can slow or stop the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells that need estrogen to grow.

How does Anastrozole work?

Anastrozole belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. Aromatase is an enzyme that helps produce estrogen in the body. By blocking this enzyme, anastrozole reduces the amount of estrogen circulating in the body, thus starving estrogen-dependent cancer cells and preventing them from growing.

What conditions does Anastrozole treat?

  • Anastrozole is primarily used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
  • It may also be used off-label to treat other conditions such as gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men) and infertility caused by hormonal imbalances.

How is Anastrozole taken?

Anastrozole is typically taken orally once a day, with or without food. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in the body. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you based on your specific condition and response to treatment.

What are the side effects of Anastrozole?

  • Common side effects of anastrozole may include hot flashes, joint pain, weakness, fatigue, and headache.
  • More serious side effects including bone fractures, heart problems, and liver issues are possible but less common. It is important to report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Is Anastrozole safe for everyone?

Anastrozole is generally considered safe for most patients, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take anastrozole, Anastrozol onkovis 1 mg as it may harm the fetus or infant. Additionally, individuals with liver or kidney problems may need to be monitored closely while taking the medication.

Consult your doctor for more information about Anastrozole and whether it is the right treatment option for you.