How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient anastrozole, which is a type of medicine known as a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor. It works by preventing the action of an enzyme in the body called the aromatase enzyme. The aromatase enzyme is normally involved in the production of the female sex hormone, oestrogen. In postmenopausal women, the aromatase enzyme converts the sex hormones androstenedione (produced by the ovary), and testosterone, into oestrogen. Anastrozole prevents this conversion, by blocking the action of the aromatase enzyme. This causes a reduction in oestrogen levels. Most breast cancers are sensitive to oestrogen, and their growth is increased in the presence of this hormone. By lowering the levels of oestrogen in the body, anastrozole is effective in treating oestrogen sensitive breast cancer. It is only effective in postmenopausal women, since before the menopause oestrogen is mainly produced by the ovaries and not by the aromatase enzyme.

What is it used for?

Advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women

Early invasive breast cancer in postmenopausal women unable to take tamoxifen

Warning!

If there is any doubt as to whether or not your menopause has taken place, you should be given a test to measure your hormone levels before this medicine is started.

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

There is insufficient information regarding the safety and efficacy of this medicine in children. It is not recommended for children.

This medicine may cause vaginal bleeding in the first few weeks if you have changed from an existing hormonal treatment. If any bleeding persists, consult your doctor.

If you have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing osteoporosis (for example if you had an early menopause, have a family history of osteoporosis, are a smoker, have a small thin frame, or have had prolonged treatment with corticosteroids such as prednisolone) you should have your bone mineral density monitored regularly with bone scans while taking this medicine.

Use with caution in

Osteoporosis

Women with risk factors for osteoporosis

Not to be used in

Breastfeeding

Moderate to severe liver disease

Moderate to severely decreased kidney function

Pre-menopausal women

Pregnancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Headache

Rash

Diarrhoea

Nausea and vomiting

Hot flushes

Loss of appetite

Severe blistering skin reaction affecting the tissues of the eyes, mouth, throat and genitals.(Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)

Vaginal dryness

Sleepiness (somnolence)

Weakness or loss of strength (asthenia)

Hair thinning

Vaginal bleeding

Raised cholesterol levels

Joint pain and stiffness

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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