Why is this medication prescribed?

Arimidex (generic name: anastrozole) is primarily prescribed to treat certain types of breast cancer in women. It is often used in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Anastrozole works by lowering the levels of estrogen in the body, which helps to slow or stop the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors.

How should this medicine be used?

Arimidex (anastrozole) is typically taken as a daily oral tablet. Here’s a general guide on how it should be used:

• Dosage: The usual dose is 1 mg taken once daily. Your doctor will determine the exact dose and duration based on your specific condition.
• Administration: Take the tablet by mouth with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Consistency: Try to take it at the same time each day to help remember.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your progress and adjust the dose if necessary.
• Storage: Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and discuss any concerns or side effects you experience.

Other uses for this medicine

Besides its primary use for treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, Arimidex (anastrozole) might be used in other contexts, such as:

• Adjuvant Therapy: After primary treatment for early-stage breast cancer, it may be used to reduce the risk of cancer returning.
• Extended Therapy: For women who have been on tamoxifen for several years, Arimidex might be used as a follow-up treatment to continue managing hormone-sensitive breast cancer.
• Neoadjuvant Therapy: In some cases, it may be used before surgery to shrink tumors in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to anastrozole or other medications.
• Bone Health: Arimidex can affect bone density, potentially leading to osteoporosis or fractures. Your doctor may monitor your bone health and recommend supplements or other treatments if needed.
• Liver Function: If you have liver problems, your doctor might adjust your dose or monitor your liver function more closely.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Arimidex should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can harm the fetus or infant.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as there can be interactions with anastrozole.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy: Avoid using hormone replacement therapy or other estrogen-containing products while on Arimidex, as they can counteract its effectiveness.
• Side Effects: Report any unusual side effects, such as severe bone pain, signs of an allergic reaction, or persistent nausea.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and report any issues you encounter while using Arimidex.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Arimidex. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help support bone health, especially if you are at risk of osteoporosis due to Arimidex.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember within 12 hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible.
• Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
• Avoid Doubling: Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Arimidex (anastrozole) can cause a range of side effects. Some of the common and less common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Hot Flashes: A common side effect, similar to menopause symptoms.
• Joint Pain: Aches or pains in the joints.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach.
• Headache: Generalized headache.
• Mood Changes: Changes in mood, such as depression or anxiety.
• Vaginal Dryness: Dryness or discomfort in the vaginal area.

Less Common or Serious Side Effects:

• Bone Density Loss: Risk of osteoporosis or bone fractures.
• Liver Problems: Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Swelling: Unexplained swelling of the arms, legs, or other parts of the body.
• Unusual Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding or bruising.
• Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest.

If you experience any of these serious side effects, or if side effects are severe or persist, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Arimidex:

Storage:

• Store Arimidex at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Keep it in its original container, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired medication through a local medicine take-back program or pharmacy disposal service if available.
• If no take-back programs are available, you can dispose of Arimidex in your household trash by mixing it with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds) in a sealed bag to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or sink unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms: While specific overdose symptoms are not well-documented, you should be cautious and seek medical help if you suspect an overdose.
• Action: Contact your local emergency services or poison control center immediately. Provide them with information about the medication, dosage, and any symptoms you are experiencing.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Keep up with regular check-ups and tests as recommended by your healthcare provider to monitor for any side effects or complications.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Lifestyle Considerations: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to help manage any side effects like bone density loss.
• Communication with Healthcare Provider: Regularly communicate with your healthcare provider about any side effects or concerns you have while taking Arimidex.