Anastrozole
Anastrozole is used to treat advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal
women who have failed to respond to therapy with other drugs, such as tamoxifen
(Nolvadex). Anastrozole works by decreasing the amount of estrogen your body makes, so
that breast cancers which require estrogen for growth may decrease in growth rate and
size.
Side effects of Anastrozole
- weakness or tiredness
- upset stomach or vomiting
- headache
- hot flashes
- bone, pelvic, and back pain
- cough
- diarrhea
- constipation
- stomach pain
- loss of appetite
- sore throat
- dizziness
- rash
- dry mouth
- swelling of the arms, legs, or ankles (edema)
- depression
- numbness
- vaginal hemorrhage
- weight gain
- sweating
- increased appetite
- increased blood cholesterol
If you experience any of the following symptoms with Anastrozole call your doctor
immediately:
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- calf pain
- redness, warmth, and swelling of arms or legs
More detailed information about Anastrozole
Each person's reaction to any medication is unique. Most people have very few side
effects with anastrozole, while others may experience more. The side effects described
here will not affect everyone and may be different if you are having more than one drug.
We have outlined the most common side effects, so that you can be aware of them if they
occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely
unlikely to affect you. If you do notice any effects that you think are not listed, please
discuss these with your doctor or nurse.
You will see your doctor regularly while you have this treatment so that they can
monitor the effects. This information should help you to discuss any queries about
your treatment and its side effects with your doctor or nurse, as they are in the best
position to help and advise you.
Some people may have the following side effects to varying degrees:
Hot flushes and sweats. These are usually mild and may wear off after
a period of time and become less of a problem. Sometimes women find that avoiding or
cutting down on tea, coffee, nicotine and alcohol can reduce sweats. Recent research
suggests that progesterone or some anti-depressants may be very helpful in controlling
this side effect. Some women find that complementary therapies help, and your GP may be
able to give you details about obtaining these on the NHS.
If you are having troublesome hot flushes do not hesitate to discuss these with your
doctor.
Vaginal dryness. This may occur while using anastrozole. Gels are
available which can help overcome the dryness and it will go back to normal after the
medication is stopped. The gels are available from any chemist or can be prescribed by
your doctor. CancerBACUP's section on Sexuality and cancer contains more
information about how to cope with this effect.
Nausea (feeling of sickness), vomiting and diarrhoea. These side
effects are uncommon but may occasionally happen. If they do occur they can usually be
effectively treated so let your doctor know. Feelings of sickness can often be relieved by
taking your tablet with food or at night. If you get diarrhoea it is important to drink
plenty of fluids. CancerBACUP has a section on managing nausea and vomiting.
The section on Diet and the cancer patient also has tips on how to cope with these
problems.
Hair thinning. Some women notice their hair becomes thinner while
taking anastrozole. This is usually mild and the hair goes back to normal at the end of
treatment.
Headaches. Some people have headaches whilst taking anastrozole but
this is not common. It is important to drink plenty of fluids. Let your doctor know if you
are getting headaches as medication can be prescribed to help.
Skin rashes. Rarely, anastrozole can cause skin rashes.
Vaginal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding (usually in the first few weeks of
treatment) has been reported. This is rare and has usually occurred after changing from
existing hormonal therapy to treatment with anastrozole. If bleeding continues, tell your
doctor or breast care nurse.
Joint pains/stiffness. This side effect is uncommon but some women
experience pain and stiffness in their joints while taking anastrozole. Let your doctor
know if these effects are troublesome. It may be helpful to take mild painkillers.
Tiredness and lethargy. Some people can experience increased
tiredness, especially at the start of treatment. It is important to get plenty of rest. If
you are very sleepy you should take extra care when driving or operating hazardous
machinery. |