Information about Arimidex (Anastrozole)
Arimidex, with the active ingredient anastrozole, is a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor primarily used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It reduces estrogen levels in the body, helping to slow or prevent the growth of certain breast tumors that depend on estrogen.
Product Highlights
- Used to treat early-stage hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
- First-line treatment of hormone receptor-positive or hormone receptor-unknown advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
- Used to treat advanced breast cancer that has returned or progressed after treatment with tamoxifen.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Lowers estrogen levels to help slow or stop the growth of certain types of breast cancer.
- Orally administered, making it convenient to use at home.
- Fewer estrogenic side effects compared to tamoxifen (e.g., no increased risk of uterine cancer).
- Appropriate for extended use in postmenopausal patients when monitored by a healthcare professional.
Direction of Use
- Typically taken as 1 mg once daily by mouth.
- Can be taken with or without food.
- Take at the same time daily to ensure stable levels of the medication in the body.
- Do not crush or chew the tablet.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions strictly and do not adjust the dose without medical advice.
Safety Concerns
- Can cause bone thinning (osteoporosis) or fractures over long-term use.
- May lead to hot flashes, joint pain, fatigue, nausea, or mood changes.
- Liver function abnormalities may occur in rare cases.
- Cholesterol levels may increase.
- Requires regular monitoring of bone density and liver function during prolonged use.
- Use with caution in patients with a history of ischemic heart disease.
Avoid Arimidex (Anastrozole) If
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding – it can harm the fetus or nursing infant.
- You have premenopausal hormone status, unless otherwise directed by a specialist.
- You have a known allergy to anastrozole or any inactive ingredients in the formulation.
- You are taking estrogen-containing therapies or tamoxifen (may interfere with effectiveness).
