Anastroz (anastrozole) is primarily used to prevent or treat breast cancer in post-menopausal women. A nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, the medication prevents aromatase from converting androgens to estrogens, thus lowering the amount available in the body. Denied estrogen, tumor cells dependent on the hormone are unable to grow.

Though relatively unusual, Anastroz is also sometimes used to help prevent cancer from spreading in pre-menopausal women, though on its own it is unlikely that Anastroz will be able to significantly reduce the large volume of estrogen produced by the ovaries. Other medications are nearly always given along with Anastroz in pre-menopausal women.

In post-menopausal women, Anastroz may be used on its own but is sometimes more effective if treatment begins following two or more years of taking tamoxifen. The medication may also replace other medications if the condition does not improve or worsens while taking other treatments.

Anastroz is a hormone-based chemotherapy, which can produce a range of unpleasant side effects, though usually not as severe as those from other types of chemotherapy. Anastroz is also effective at both preventing and combating breast cancer; the potential benefits in reduced mental and physical suffering, improved quality of life, and extension of life are clear and for most women far outweigh the risks associated with treatment.

Treatment overview

Anastroz comes in tablets, nearly always taken just once daily. Taking tablets at the same time each day will help keep levels of the drug consistent in the body. Food is optional, but may help ease gastrointestinal side effects, if experienced.

Dosage and duration of treatment vary depending on the condition being treated, patient response, and other personal variables like weight. That said, most patients take 1 mg Anastroz per day. Doctor instructions should be followed for the duration of treatment.

Treatment often lasts two to five years, sometimes longer. Dosage may be adjusted several times during treatment.

Missed doses should be taken when remembered. If it is near time for the next dose, it may be skipped entirely. Double doses should be avoided.

Side Effects & Warnings

Most patients will experience at least a few side effects from Anastroz, though they're often mild and may stop occurring as the body adjusts to treatment. They also tend to resemble symptoms of menopause, and may be indistinguishable from naturally-occurring symptoms. If side effects persist, are severe, or worsen, a physician should be consulted:

• Headache
• Sweating
• Hot flashes
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Vaginal dryness, irritation or bleeding
• Heartburn
• Dry mouth
• Depression
• Insomnia

More serious side effects are rare, but warrant medical attention:

• Chest pain
• Painful or urgent urination
• Pain in the upper right of the stomach
• Vision changes
• Difficulty breathing
• Skin lesions or ulcers

Anastroz may decrease bone density in some women, increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis and bone fractures or breaks. Frequent bone density tests may be requested for high-risk patients.

This medication is only for post-menopausal women and certain pre-menopausal women. It is not for use by men or children.

Anastroz is harmful to nursing and unborn babies.

Women taking Anastroz, or who have or are at high risk of developing breast cancer, should avoid estrogen supplementation.