Anastrozole
Anastrozole belongs to the aromatase inhibitor class and is taken by mouth as a film-coated tablet. It lowers oestrogen production in the body and is used in breast cancer that depends on oestrogen to grow. Treatment is prescribed and supervised by a doctor.
Medicine containing Anastrozole
Key points
- Anastrozole should not be combined with oestrogen-containing therapies or with tamoxifen, because both work against it.
- Its effect builds over roughly 2–4 weeks, and each dose lasts around 24 hours.
- Bone mineral density should be assessed at regular intervals and the lipid profile monitored, with caution needed in moderate to severe hepatic impairment.
What anastrozole is used for
It treats hormone receptor-positive Breast Cancer in women who have been through menopause. It is given alongside other treatment, such as surgery or radiation, in early breast cancer, as a first-line option in advanced breast cancer, and where the disease has worsened on tamoxifen.
How it works
Anastrozole is potent and selective for the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens into oestrogens in peripheral tissue. Blocking that step lowers circulating oestrogen in post-menopausal women. Hormone-sensitive tumours need oestrogen to grow, so reducing the supply limits their growth. The fall in oestrogen happens throughout the body rather than at one site.
Forms and brands
The medicine comes as a film-coated tablet, which gives a consistent dose. Arimidex 1mg is one brand containing anastrozole. Orders are prepared by licensed pharmacy partners in India and shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.
Who should not take it
Anastrozole is contraindicated in anyone with hypersensitivity to it, in women who have not reached menopause, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Aromatase inhibitors can harm the fetus or cause pregnancy loss. Allergic reactions include anaphylaxis, angioedema and urticaria, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat can make swallowing or breathing difficult.
Side effects
Hot flushes, asthenia, arthralgia and headache are the minor effects. Vaginal dryness, hair thinning, nausea and rash are moderate. Osteoporosis, bone fractures and severe skin reactions are serious and require immediate medical attention.
What the sources say
- MedlinePlus describes anastrozole as given with surgery or radiation for early breast cancer in women after menopause, as initial treatment in advanced disease, and after the cancer has worsened on tamoxifen. (MedlinePlus)
- Anastrozole can lead to osteoporosis or make existing bone loss worse, lowering bone density and raising the chance of fractures. (MedlinePlus)
- Hypersensitivity and pregnancy are named as the two major contraindications to aromatase inhibitors, with hypersensitivity appearing as anaphylaxis, angioedema or urticaria. (StatPearls)
Further reading
FAQ
What is anastrozole used to treat?
Anastrozole is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in women who have been through menopause. It can be given alongside surgery or radiation in early breast cancer and as a first-line option in advanced breast cancer.
How does anastrozole lower oestrogen?
Anastrozole is potent and selective for the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens into oestrogens in peripheral tissue. Blocking that step lowers circulating oestrogen in post-menopausal women.
Which people should avoid anastrozole?
Anastrozole is contraindicated in anyone with hypersensitivity to it, in women who have not reached menopause, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Aromatase inhibitors can harm the fetus or cause pregnancy loss.
What can I order that contains anastrozole?
You'll find anastrozole in Arimidex, among others. The listing above lets you compare forms, strengths and packs.
How long does anastrozole take to work?
Its effect builds over roughly 2 to 4 weeks, and each dose lasts around 24 hours.
What side effects can anastrozole cause?
Common side effects include hot flushes, asthenia, arthralgia and headache. Osteoporosis, bone fractures and severe skin reactions are serious and require immediate medical attention. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
Can anastrozole be taken with other medicines?
Anastrozole should not be combined with oestrogen-containing therapies or with tamoxifen, because both work against it. Check with a doctor or pharmacist about other medicines you take.
Where can I buy anastrozole online?
Our pharmacy partners send orders from India to Malaysia in plain, discreet packaging. Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week; Standard Airmail can take up to 3 weeks.
How ordering works →Last updated