Description
Anastrozole is a medication used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and it is often sold in tablet form. Each tablet typically contains 1 milligram (mg) of anastrozole. Here’s a description of Anastrozole:
1. Medical Use:
- Anastrozole belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. It is used primarily in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
- It works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens (hormones produced by the adrenal glands) into estrogen. By reducing estrogen levels, it can help slow the growth of estrogen-sensitive breast tumors.
2. Non-Medical Uses:
- Anastrozole is not typically used for non-medical or recreational purposes. It is a prescription medication specifically indicated for the treatment of breast cancer.
3. Dosage:
- Each tablet of Anastrozole typically contains 1 mg of the active ingredient.
4. Mechanism of Action:
- Anastrozole inhibits aromatase, the enzyme responsible for estrogen synthesis. By doing so, it reduces estrogen levels in the body, which can be beneficial in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer.
5. Side Effects:
- Common side effects of Anastrozole may include hot flashes, joint pain, muscle pain, fatigue, and mood changes.
- Anastrozole is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can have potential side effects, and some individuals may experience more severe reactions.