Anastrozole

Anastrozole is a new generation nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, which selectively and potently blocks the enzymatic synthesis of estrogen from androgen.

Indications

Advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Dosage

1mg once daily. Advanced disease: continue until tumor progression.

Contra-Indications

Pregnancy and lactation; moderate or severe hepatic disease/renal impairment; premenopausal women.

Special Precautions

Estrogen containing therapies should not be used with anastrozole as they may diminish its pharmacological action.Tamoxifen should not be co-administered with anastrozole.

Side Effects

Hot flushes, vaginal dryness, vaginal bleeding, hair thinning, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, arthralgia, bone fractures, rash (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Asthenia and drowsiness may initially affect ability to drive or operate machinery.