Anastrozole tablet is a medication used for hormonal therapy. It is typically administered only after a patient has undergone menopause.

It serves the following purposes:

• to lower the likelihood of early breast cancer recurrence
• to manage breast cancer that has recurred or metastasized to other areas of the body (secondary breast cancer).

Anastrozole is occasionally utilized to:

• diminish the likelihood of breast cancer occurrence if your family history or a genetic assessment indicates an elevated risk of breast cancer.

It is advisable to review this information alongside our general details regarding hormonal therapies and the specific type of cancer you are diagnosed with.

Your oncologist will discuss this treatment and its potential side effects with you prior to your consent for the treatment.

Anastrozole and breast cancer prevention

You might have come across recent news regarding the availability of anastrozole tablet in England as a preventive measure against breast cancer.

Anastrozole tablet uk is applicable post-menopause to lower the likelihood of developing breast cancer, particularly if your family history or a genetic assessment indicates an elevated risk of breast cancer.

How Anastrozole works?

Hormones are substances produced by our bodies. They function as messengers and regulate the operations of cells and organs. Hormonal therapies consist of medications that alter the production or function of hormones within the body.

Numerous breast cancers depend on the hormone oestrogen (or estrogen) for their growth. This condition is referred to as oestrogen receptor-positive (ER positive) breast cancer.

Anastrozole tablet inhibits an enzyme (a specific type of protein) that facilitates the production of oestrogen in the body’s fatty tissues. This action decreases the overall level of oestrogen in the body.

During  treatment, you usually see a:

• cancer doctor
• specialist nurse
• specialist pharmacist.

This is what we mean to say when we mention nurse, doctor or pharmacist in this article

Anastrozole tablet is available in tablet form for home administration. It can be taken alongside other medications. The recommended dosage is once daily, with or without meals. It is advisable to take it at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole, accompanied by a glass of water.

If you happen to forget to take your tablet, proceed to take your next dose as you normally would. Avoid taking a double dose.

Anastrozole is a treatment intended for long-term use. It may be necessary for you to continue taking it for multiple years. Your healthcare provider, which may include your nurse, doctor, or pharmacist, will discuss your treatment plan with you. It is essential to take the tablets precisely as instructed. This is crucial to ensure they are as effective as possible for your needs.

Important things to remember about Anastrozole tablets:

• Store them in their original packaging at room temperature, ensuring they are protected from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.

• Ensure they are kept in a secure location, out of sight and reach of children.
• Obtain a new prescription before depleting your supply of tablets, and ensure you have an adequate amount for holiday periods.
• If your treatment is discontinued, return any remaining tablets to the pharmacist.

Your physician, nurse, or pharmacist may also provide you with additional medications to take home. It is essential to take all your medications precisely as they have been described to you. Do not discontinue any of your medications unless instructed to do so.

Anastrozole Side Effects:

We outline the most frequently encountered side effects for Anastrozole in this section. Additionally, we also mention some that are less prevalent.

You may experience some of the side effects from Anastrozole we discuss, but it is improbable that you will experience all of them. Furthermore, you might encounter some side effects, including those that are rarer, which are not included in this list.

Different cancer treatments may lead to various side effects. If you are undergoing other cancer treatments, you may experience additional side effects.

During this treatment, you will have regular consultations with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. It is essential to inform them about any side affects you are experiencing. They can give you:

 

• medications to assist in managing the majority of side effects
• guidance on handling side effects.

The majority of side effects can be effectively managed. However, there are instances when side effects become more challenging to control. It is crucial to refrain from discontinuing hormonal therapy without consulting your physician. If the side effects prove unmanageable, your physician may recommend an alternative form of hormonal therapy.

Hot flushes and sweats

Hot flushes are a frequent side effect associated with this treatment. During a flush, you may experience warmth in your neck and face. For individuals with white skin, the skin may appear red. Conversely, for those with black or brown skin, the skin tone may become darker. Flushes can persist for as long as 5 minutes. Additionally, you may experience sweating or feelings of anxiety or irritability during a hot flush.

Below are some of the tips you can do to reduce the effects of hot flushes:

• Dress in layers to allow for the removal of clothing as necessary.
• Utilize cotton bed linens and bedding layers that can be taken off.
• Consider using cooling pads or pillows to maintain a comfortable temperature.
• Ensure that rooms are kept cool or employ a fan.
• Consume cold beverages and steer clear of caffeine and alcohol.
• Opt for natural materials, like cotton.

 

You may experience a reduction in hot flushes as your body acclimates to this treatment. Consider exploring therapies that can assist you in managing hot flushes, including:

 

• talking therapies such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)
• controlled breathing exercises
• yoga
• acupuncture.

If there is no improvement, consult your physician. Specific medications may assist in alleviating hot flushes.

Flushes typically cease a few months following the conclusion of treatment. However, some individuals may continue to experience them.

Muscle or joint pain

You might experience discomfort in your muscles or joints. Should this occur, inform your doctor or nurse. They are able to provide you with guidance and pain relief medications or other treatments to assist you. Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight may alleviate the pain. This can help keep your joints flexible and lessen the strain on them. If the discomfort persists, notify your doctor or nurse. They may discuss the possibility of switching to an alternative hormonal medication.

Feeling sick

Any illness is generally mild. Inform your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if this occurs. It may be beneficial to take your anastrozole tablets with food or in the evening.

Headaches                              

This treatment has the potential to induce headaches. Should you experience headaches, please inform your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. They are able to provide guidance regarding pain relief medications that may be beneficial. Notify them if the headache does not improve or if it worsens.

Skin changes

This treatment has the potential to impact your skin. It might lead to a rash that could be itchy. Your healthcare provider can inform you about what to anticipate. If you experience dryness in your skin, consider using soap-free cleansers and unscented moisturizing cream on a daily basis.

It is essential to inform your doctor or nurse about any alterations in your skin. They can provide guidance and may recommend creams or medications to assist you. Typically, skin changes tend to improve once the treatment concludes.

Bone thinning (osteoporosis)

Undergoing this treatment for an extended period, such as several months or longer, may elevate the risk of bone density loss. This condition is referred to as osteoporosis. It can increase your susceptibility to sustaining a broken bone (fracture).

Bone density scans may be conducted to assess your bone health prior to and throughout the course of treatment. These scans are capable of diagnosing osteoporosis or osteopenia (reduced bone density) to facilitate monitoring. Should your scan indicate osteoporosis, your physician typically recommends:

• medications known as bisphosphonates to safeguard your bones
• supplements of calcium and vitamin D.

Engaging in regular physical activities that utilize your body weight, such as walking, running, and dancing, can contribute to the health of your bones. This type of activity is referred to as weight-bearing exercise. Additionally, other forms of strength training can be beneficial. If you are experiencing any bone density loss or if cancer is impacting your bones, it is advisable to consult with your cancer care team beforehand.

Moreover, maintaining a nutritious diet and avoiding smoking also plays a significant role in bone health.

Low mood or depression

If you are feeling down or suspect that you may be experiencing depression, it is advisable to consult your doctor, nurse, or general practitioner. It is not unusual to experience a range of emotions upon receiving a cancer diagnosis. Additionally, you may be facing hormonal fluctuations.

Your healthcare provider can refer you for counseling or discuss potential medications that could be beneficial. We also offer further information regarding assistance for depression.

Vaginal bleeding or dryness

This treatment may lead to alterations in the vaginal area. You might experience bleeding at the onset of this treatment, or if you switch to anastrozole from a different therapy. Should the bleeding persist for more than a few days, it is important to inform your doctor or nurse.

Consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist regarding options to alleviate vaginal dryness. They can provide guidance and may be able to prescribe a suitable remedy. Additionally, non-hormonal creams, gels, or lubricants are available for purchase at a pharmacy. We also offer further information concerning cancer and sexual health.

Loss of appetite

This treatment may influence your appetite. If you find it challenging to consume three substantial meals daily, consider opting for smaller, more frequent meals or snacks as an alternative.

Changes to your taste

Certain foods might have a distinct flavor or may lack taste altogether. Experiment with various foods to discover what you enjoy the most. Additionally, you might experience a bitter or metallic sensation in your mouth. Consulting your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with guidance. It may be beneficial to consider the following options:

• sucking on sugar-free sour or boiled candies
• consuming cold dishes
• enjoying sharp-flavored fresh fruits.

 

Alterations in taste typically improve following the conclusion of treatment. We possess additional information regarding strategies for managing changes in taste.

Diarrhoea

This condition is typically mild. Should it not improve, your physician, nurse, or pharmacist may prescribe medication to manage it. If you are experiencing diarrhoea, ensure that you consume a minimum of 2 litres (3½ pints) of fluids daily.

Hair thinning

During the course of this treatment, you may notice that your hair becomes thinner, drier, and more brittle. Typically, this is a mild effect. Should you have concerns regarding this, please consult your nurse for guidance on hair care.

Effects on the liver

This treatment could influence the functioning of your liver. Typically, this effect is mild and returns to normal once the treatment concludes. Blood tests will be conducted to monitor the performance of your liver.

Raised cholesterol level

This treatment has the potential to elevate cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the bloodstream. A blood test may be conducted to assess your cholesterol levels. Your physician might recommend that you consult a dietitian for dietary guidance, or they may prescribe medications to help manage your cholesterol levels.

Pain, numbness or tingling in hand and fingers

Certain individuals may experience discomfort, numbness, or tingling sensations in their hands and fingers. These symptoms could be attributed to carpal tunnel syndrome, which results from pressure exerted on a nerve in the wrist. Should you encounter these symptoms, it is advisable to inform your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.