Anastrozole

Filed under: Other Medication

Displayed: Anastrozole Arimidex 1mg

Anastrozole is a white drug used to treat breast cancer after surgery and for metastases (The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another). Anastrozole is an aromatase inhibitor, which means that it interrupts a critical step in the body’s synthesis of estrogen. Some breast cancers need the hormone estrogen to grow. In women who have had their menopause, the main source of estrogen is through the change of androgens (sex hormones) into estrogens. The drug works by preventing this change this has a knock on effect that reduces the amount of oestrogen in the body.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Anticancer drug with danger of overdose – LOW.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – NO.
• Alcohol no KNOWN special problems.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Hot flushes, Fatigue, Dizziness, Headache.
Rare: Stiffness, Joint pain, Vaginal dryness, vaginal bleeding, Rash, Thinning hair, Nausea, Constipation.

Important: If you experience severe skin reactions with ulcers or blisters, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty swallowing or difficulty breathing contact your doctor at once.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Anastrozole lowers the levels of female hormones in the body, because of this action bone strength can be reduced and If you have or are at risk of developing osteoporosis there will be a need for you to have your bone density assessed at the very start of your treatment, and go on to have this procedure done at regular intervals throughout your treatment.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Although there would be no problems expected you should not drive or operate machinery until you become aware of how anastrozole will affects you. It is possible for this drug to cause dizziness in the initial period of treatment.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

Anastrozole would not normally be prescribed during pregnancy. It is not known if anastrozole is found in breast milk. However, this drug would not normally be prescribed to breast feeding mothers. It would be an important point to discuss both of these issues with your doctor or pharmacist.

Anastrozole is classified as a Pregnancy Category D Medicine. Category D… There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60’s & Children

Anastrozole would not cause any special problems for this age group. This drug would not be recommended for children.

Overdose

If you did take an unintentional extra dose it is unlikely to give rise for concern. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms or a large overdose has been taken you should notify your doctor immediately or visit your A & E department of your local hospital.

Surgery / Dental Treatment

Before having any kind of medical treatment, including dental treatment or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, surgeon, dentist, or other medical professional, that you are taking anastrozole.

Other Medication Reactions

Tamoxifen (used to treat breast cancer) and estrogens oppose the effects of anastrozole.

Missed A Dose

You should try to take your medication at the same time each day. If for what ever reason you miss your dose you should not worry just continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ideally you would have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not stop taking your medication without first consulting your doctor. Stopping this drug may cause a worsening of your condition.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

You should feel the first effects of this drug within 30 minutes. The action of this drug can last for up to 24 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.