Description

 Anastrozole 1 Mg – Generic Arimidex

Anastrozole is a hormonal therapy medication primarily used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which reduce the production of estrogen in the body. Since certain breast cancers require estrogen to grow, Anastrozole helps in slowing or halting their growth.

Brand Names and Classification

• Generic Name: Anastrozole
• Brand Name: Arimidex
• Drug Class: Aromatase Inhibitor
• Dosage Form: Oral tablet
• Strength: 1 mg

How Anastrozole Works

In postmenopausal women, estrogen is primarily produced by converting androgens into estrogen via the aromatase enzyme. Anastrozole inhibits this enzyme, reducing estrogen production. By lowering estrogen levels, Anastrozole deprives cancer cells that rely on estrogen from growing and multiplying.

This makes it highly effective for early-stage and metastatic hormone-sensitive breast cancer.

Indications

Anastrozole 1 mg is prescribed for:

• Early breast cancer (adjuvant therapy) in postmenopausal women
• Advanced or metastatic breast cancer with hormone receptor-positive status
• First-line treatment for hormone-dependent cancer
• Second-line treatment after tamoxifen failure
• Prevention of recurrence in high-risk patients

Note: Anastrozole is not recommended for premenopausal women, unless directed by a doctor as part of a fertility or hormone suppression protocol.

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Anastrozole 1 mg per tablet
• Inactive Ingredients: Lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, povidone, sodium starch glycolate

Dosage and Administration

• Standard Adult Dose: One 1 mg tablet daily
• Route: Oral
• With or Without Food: Can be taken with or without meals
• Duration: Usually up to 5 years in early breast cancer; duration may vary in advanced or recurrent cases

Do not stop taking Anastrozole without medical supervision. Skipping doses or early discontinuation can increase cancer recurrence risks.

Side Effects

Anastrozole is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it may cause side effects. Patients should be monitored regularly.

Common Side Effects Include:

• Joint stiffness or pain
• Hot flashes
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
• High cholesterol levels

Less Common but Serious Effects:

• Liver dysfunction
• Depression or mood swings
• Increased risk of heart problems
• Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, breathing difficulty)

Report any unusual or severe symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

• Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Can cause fetal harm.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Bone Health: Risk of osteoporosis. Bone mineral density should be monitored.
• Cardiovascular: Use with caution in patients with pre-existing heart disease.
• Liver/Kidney Impairment: Dose adjustment may be required.

Avoid the use of Anastrozole together with estrogen-containing therapies or tamoxifen unless otherwise instructed by your physician.

Drug Interactions

Anastrozole may interact with:

• Estrogen-based medications (hormone therapy)
• Tamoxifen (may reduce Anastrozole’s effectiveness)
• Blood thinners (monitor for signs of bleeding)
• Osteoporosis medications

Always disclose all medications and supplements to your healthcare provider.

Clinical Benefits

• Reduces risk of breast cancer recurrence by up to 50 percent in eligible women
• Better tolerated than tamoxifen in terms of endometrial side effects
• Less risk of blood clots compared to SERMs
• Effective for both early and late-stage hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature between 15°C to 30°C
• Keep in original packaging until use
• Protect from moisture and direct light
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Packaging and Availability

• Available in packs of 10, 28, or 30 tablets
• Generic and branded options available
• Packed in secure blister strips for hygiene
• Shipped globally from licensed pharmacies

Anastrozole 1 mg is available by prescription only. Please upload a valid prescription during checkout if required by local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Anastrozole 1 mg used for?
Anastrozole is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women by reducing estrogen levels in the body.

2. Is Anastrozole the same as Arimidex?
Yes. Arimidex is the brand name, and Anastrozole is the generic formulation. Both contain the same active ingredient and are equally effective.

3. How long should I take Anastrozole?
It is commonly prescribed for up to 5 years, but your doctor may modify this based on your health status and risk factors.

4. Can men take Anastrozole?
While primarily prescribed for women, doctors may prescribe it off-label for men with certain conditions such as gynecomastia or hormone imbalance.

5. Does Anastrozole cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not common but has been reported. Weight changes may also result from menopause or cancer treatments.

6. Is Anastrozole chemotherapy?
No. Anastrozole is a hormonal therapy, not a chemotherapy drug.

7. Can Anastrozole be taken with food?
Yes, it can be taken with or without food.

8. What happens if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.

9. Does it cause hair loss?
Some hair thinning may occur, but complete hair loss is rare with Anastrozole.

10. Can I buy Anastrozole online?
Yes, but only from licensed pharmacies. A valid prescription may be required depending on your location.