Anastrozole [Oral]
Brand Names: Arimidex

Pronunciation: a-NAS-tro-zol
Drug class: Antineoplastic Agent
Generic available? No
Controlled substance? No

Oral anastrozole belongs to a class of antineoplastic drugs called aromatase inhibitors. It is used as a second phase treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by decreasing estrogen levels in the body.

FDA Approved Uses
 Treatment of advanced breast cancer in post-menopausal women with disease progression following tamoxifen therapy.
Contraindications

Any of the following may be reason to choose a different drug. Inform your doctor before starting therapy.
 Hypersensitivity to anastrozole

Dosage and Administration

Dosages may require modification to adjust for individual sensitivities and associated medical conditions.

Adults Under 60
1 mg taken by mouth once per day.

Adults 60 and Over
Follow the adult dosage, unless directed otherwise by your physician.

Maximum Dosage Recommendations
Do not exceed the recommended doses, unless deemed necessary by your doctor.

If You Miss a Dose
Take as soon as possible. If close to the next dose, skip and take the next dose. Do not double the dose.

Storage

Keep all medications out of the reach of children

Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature in a dry, dark place. Do not store in the bathroom. Moisture can cause the drug to break down.

You may experience the following side effects with the use of this drug:

Common Symptoms
 Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
 Dizziness
 Diarrhea
 Nausea or vomiting
 Headache
 Hot flushes
 Weakness
 Cough
 Dry mouth
 Skin rash
 Sweating
 Abdominal pain
 Bone pain
Less Common to Rare Symptoms
 Vaginal bleeding
 Weight gain
 Tiredness or weakness
 Cough or sore throat
 Muscle or joint pain
 Fever or chills
 Dizziness
 Breast pain
 Itching
Life-threatening Symptoms
 None expected
What to Do in Case of Overdose

Dial 911 for emergency help or call your poison control center.

Prolonged Use
No problems are expected, providing you are not pregnant when you start therapy, and do not become pregnant during therapy.

Discontinuing Therapy
Do not discontinue without your physician's consent

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The Cuban