Anastrozole is a medication used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, which work by decreasing the amount of estrogen in the body. Estrogen is a hormone that can promote the growth of some types of breast cancer. Anastrozole blocks the enzyme aromatase, which is involved in the production of estrogen, thus reducing its levels. This medication is usually taken by mouth once a day and can be taken with or without food. Common side effects of anastrozole include hot flashes, joint pain, weakness, mood changes, and nausea. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor and report any side effects immediately.

How does Anastrozole work?

Anastrozole works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for the conversion of androgens (male hormones) into estrogens (female hormones) in peripheral tissues, such as fatty tissues and breast cancer cells. By blocking aromatase, anastrozole reduces the production of estrogen in the body, which can help to slow or stop the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers.

Breast cancer cells can rely on estrogen to grow and divide, and therefore, reducing the levels of estrogen can help to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells. Anastrozole specifically targets the aromatase enzyme and lowers the amount of estrogen circulating in the body, leading to a reduction in the size and number of breast cancer cells. This makes anastrozole an effective treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, where estrogen plays a critical role in tumor growth.

Anastrozole Dosage and Administration

Anastrozole is usually taken by mouth once a day, with or without food. The recommended dose for most women with breast cancer is 1 milligram (mg) per day. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your individual response to the medication and other factors, such as your age and overall health.

It is important to take anastrozole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of the medication than recommended, and do not stop taking it without first talking to your doctor.

If you miss a dose of anastrozole, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Anastrozole is usually taken for 5 years or longer, depending on the individual case. It is important to continue taking the medication for as long as your doctor prescribes it, even if you start to feel better. Do not stop taking anastrozole without talking to your doctor first.

Anastrozole Adverse Effects

Like any medication, anastrozole can cause adverse effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some of the common side effects of anastrozole include:

• Hot flashes
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Weakness and fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety
• Osteoporosis and bone fractures
• Increased risk of heart disease

Less commonly, anastrozole can cause more serious side effects, such as:

• Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing
• Liver problems, such as liver inflammation or elevated liver enzymes
• Blood clots, which can cause swelling, pain, and redness in the affected limb
• Vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Changes in cholesterol levels

It is important to report any side effects that you experience while taking anastrozole to your doctor, as some of these effects may require further medical attention. Your doctor may be able to adjust your dose or recommend other treatments to help manage side effects.

Legality to buy online in the USA

In the United States, it is illegal to buy prescription medications like anastrozole online without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

While there are many websites that claim to sell prescription drugs without a prescription, these sites are often not legitimate and may sell counterfeit or substandard medications. Buying medications from these sources can be dangerous and can put your health at risk.

It is important to only purchase medications from reputable sources, such as a licensed pharmacy or a trusted online pharmacy that requires a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Your doctor can also recommend a reputable pharmacy where you can purchase anastrozole legally and safely.