Anastrozole tablets
What do anastrozole tablets do?
ANASTROZOLE (Arimidex(R)) blocks the production of the hormone estrogen. Some types of breast cancer depend on estrogen to grow, and anastrozole can stop tumor growth by blocking estrogen production. Anastrozole is for the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women only. Generic anastrozole tablets are not yet available.
What should my health care professional know before I take anastrozole?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to anastrozole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take anastrozole tablets by mouth at the same time each day with or without food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. If you vomit after taking a dose, call your prescriber or health care professional for advice.
What other medicines can interact with anastrozole?
• androstenedione
• any medicine containing estrogens (This may include some herbal products and some birth control pills)
• DHEA
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking anastrozole?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• any new or unusual symptoms
• difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• leg pain or swelling
• vaginal bleeding
• vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• back or bone pain
• cough, or throat infection
• diarrhea or constipation
• dizziness
• headache
• hot flashes
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• stomach pain
• sweating
• weakness and tiredness
• weight gain