Indications
Arimidex generically known as Anastrozole is a prescription drug used to treat post-menopausal women with certain types of breast cancer. It is a type of hormone therapy, specifically an aromatase inhibitor. Anastrozole works by lowering estrogen levels in the body to slow down the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.
Arimidex is indicated for the treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer. It is used for the treatment of postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer who have previously been treated with tamoxifen. It is also indicated for the first-line treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive or hormone receptor unknown locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
Uses and Dosage
Arimidex (Anastrozole) comes in the form of a tablet that should be taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. Anastrozole comes in the form of tablets and should be taken with or without food. It must be swallowed whole with water and not crush or chew it, as this may lead to throat irritation.
Treatment with anastrozole usually lasts for up to 5 years and must complete the full treatment course to experience the maximum benefit. To get the most benefit from this medication, take it regularly at the same time each day. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed, as doing so can increase your risk of serious side effects.
The typical recommended dosage for Anastrozole is 1 mg taken once a day. This dosage is typically used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women, though it may be used to prevent breast cancer in high-risk women as well. For patients with advanced breast cancer, Anastrozole should be continued until tumor progression is seen.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Anastrozole:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Throat irritation
- Tiredness
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Anastrozole
- Muscles feel weak, or the joints or tendons in your ankles, legs, shoulders, or arms feel weak, painful, or swollen
- Skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow Eyesight becomes blurry
- Feeling thirsty and peeing a lot
- feeling sick and have lost your appetite
- Get red or purple spots (if you have light skin) or dark spots (if you have darker skin)
Form and Strength
Arimidex and its generic alternative Anastrozole are available in the following forms and strengths:
Arimidex: Tablet
- 1 mg
Anastrozole: Film Coated Tablet
- 1 mg
Caution
- Arimidex can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, so people handling it must exercise caution. Pregnant women and those who may become pregnant should avoid contact with or inhalation of this medication, as it may cause harm to unborn babies.
- Be aware of a potential severe allergic reaction when taking this prescription drug. If you have a known allergy to anastrozole or any of the inactive ingredients in each tablet, do not take this anti-cancer agent. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, rash, or hives, stop taking the medication and seek medical help immediately.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking an aromatase inhibitor, as alcoholic beverages can trigger or worsen certain side effects, such as dizziness and vision changes. You should also exercise caution when performing activities that require clear vision and alertness, such as using machinery, driving, or cycling.
- Before taking anastrozole, disclose your full medical history to your physician, including any history of osteoporosis, heart disease, blood clots, high blood pressure or hypertension, and liver disease. These conditions can increase the risk of side effects from taking anastrozole, and your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or monitor you more closely if any of these conditions are present.
- ARIMIDEX (Anastrozole) is only recommended for postmenopausal women and should not be taken if you are pregnant because it can harm your unborn baby.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is anastrozole prescribed instead of tamoxifen?
Anastrozole works by lowering estrogen levels in the body to slow down the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.
When is the best time to take anastrozole?
It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take anastrozole at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
What to avoid when taking anastrozole?
Avoid raw fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, cereals, and seeds. Soluble fiber is found in some foods and absorbs fluid, which can help relieve diarrhea.
What is Arimidex anastrozole used for?
Anastrozole is used to treat early hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It is also used for first-line treatment of hormone receptor-positive or hormone receptor-unknown advanced or metastatic (cancer that has spread) breast cancer.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4511/arimidex-oral/details
- https://www.arimidex.com/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2753667/
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