Anastrozole: What is it and how does it work?

Posted on May 13, 2024

Anastrozole: What is it and how does it work?

Anastrozole is a medication commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which work by lowering the levels of estrogen in the body. Estrogen is a hormone that can fuel the growth of certain types of breast cancer.

How does Anastrozole work?

When someone is diagnosed with breast cancer, their doctor may recommend Anastrozole as part of their treatment plan. This medication works by inhibiting the enzyme Anastrozol Glenmark 1 mg aromatase, which plays a key role in the production of estrogen. By blocking this enzyme, Anastrozole helps to lower the level of estrogen circulating in the body.

Reducing estrogen levels can help slow down or even stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells, which rely on estrogen to thrive. By depriving these cancer cells of the estrogen they need, Anastrozole can help to shrink tumors and prevent their spread to other parts of the body.

What are the common side effects of Anastrozole?

Like all medications, Anastrozole can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects of this drug include hot flashes, joint pain, fatigue, and bone thinning (osteoporosis). It’s important to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they may be able to provide you with strategies to manage them.

In rare cases, Anastrozole can also lead to more serious side effects such as liver problems or an increased risk of heart disease. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are taking this medication to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.

If you have been prescribed Anastrozole as part of your breast cancer treatment, it’s important to take the medication exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking Anastrozole without consulting your doctor, as doing so could compromise the effectiveness of your treatment.