Anastrozole is an aromatase inhibitor, an anti-cancer medication use for the adjuvant or initial treatment of breast cancer in post-menopausal women. Estrogen causes or increases growth of certain breast cancers. Anastrozole works by blocking aromatase enzyme, which is involved in estrogen production in the body. This leads to decreased tumor size or delayed progression of tumor growth in some women. The FDA approved brand name anastrozole (Arimidex) in 1995.

Arimidex

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Yes

Side effects of anastrozole are hot flashes, pain, arthritis, headache, increased blood pressure, depression, nausea, vomiting, bone pain, weakened bones, sleeplessness, and rash.

The recommended dose of anastrozole is one tablet (1 mg) by mouth once daily.

Anastrozole should not be used with tamoxifen because tamoxifen can reduce anastrozole levels in the body and decrease its therapeutic effects.

Estrogens decrease the effect of anastrozole by increasing estrogen levels in the body.

Anastrozole is not recommended for pregnant mothers under any circumstances. Anastrozole may cause fetal harm and terminate pregnancy.

It is not known whether anastrozole enters breast milk. It should not be administered to nursing mothers to avoid any harm to the newborn.

What preparations of anastrozole-oral are available?

Tablets: 1 mg

How should I keep anastrozole-oral stored?

Store anastrozole tablets at room temperature, between 20 C – 25 C (68 F – 77 F).