Anastrozole, Oral

What are other names for this medicine?

Generic and brand names: anastrozole, oral; Arimidex

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is taken by mouth to treat advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women (those who no longer have monthly periods) who have hormone-receptive breast cancer. It is also used for cancer that has not responded to tamoxifen (Nolvadex).

How should I take it?

Take this medicine once every day. Do not stop taking this medicine unless your health care provider approves. Take your dose at the same time every day so that it is easier to remember. Do not miss doses.

If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember that day. If you do not remember that day, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose the next day. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your health care provider.

What should I watch out for?

Females of childbearing age: This medicine should not be taken during pregnancy because it may harm the baby. Your health care provider will probably do a pregnancy test to make sure that you are not pregnant. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant while taking this medicine. Also, tell your health care provider if you are breast-feeding. Do not breast-feed without your health care provider's approval.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Most side effects are mild. If any of these side effects become severe and continue, report them to your health care provider: Weakness, nausea, headache, hot flashes, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dizziness, rash, dry mouth, depression, chest pain, vaginal bleeding.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant interactions have been reported.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.