Uses

Indicated as adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer. Also indicated as first-line treatment for hormone receptor-positive or hormone receptor-unknown locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and for advanced breast cancer after tamoxifen therapy progression.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to anastrozole or any excipient. Not indicated for premenopausal women. Avoid concurrent use with estrogen-containing products or tamoxifen.

Side effects

Common adverse reactions include hot flashes, joint pain (arthralgia), weakness, mood disturbances, and osteoporosis. Serious but rare reactions include anaphylaxis, angioedema, urticaria, and hepatic enzyme elevations. Ischemic cardiovascular events may occur in patients with pre-existing coronary disease.

Warnings

May decrease bone mineral density; consider bone density monitoring and bisphosphonate therapy. Increases risk of ischemic cardiovascular events in patients with pre-existing coronary disease. Not for use in premenopausal women. Monitor liver function if hepatic disease is present.

How it works

Anastrozole is a selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor. It potently inhibits the aromatase enzyme (CYP19), which converts androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues including the breast tumor itself. By suppressing estrogen biosynthesis in postmenopausal women, it deprives hormone-dependent tumors of their primary growth stimulus.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20°C–25°C). Keep in original packaging, away from moisture and light.