This medicine is used for the following purposes:
Brand Name(s): Arimidex
Generic Name: Anastrozole
Instructions
This medicine may be taken with or without food.
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. Check with your doctor before stopping.
This medicine may affect the strength of your bones. If you have or are at increased risk for osteoporosis (weakening of the bones), your doctor may recommend foods with calcium and vitamin D.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.
Cautions
This medicine should not be used in patients taking estrogen. The combination of the two medicines can increase the risk of serious side effects, including heart disease and blood clots. Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine containing estrogen.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for bone fractures.
Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 weeks after stopping treatment.
Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.
Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 3 weeks after stopping to prevent pregnancy.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
- decreased appetite
- loss of balance
- constipation or diarrhea
- dizziness
- dry mouth
- lack of energy and tiredness
- feeling of heat or flushing
- hair loss
- headaches
- nausea and vomiting
- nervousness
- stomach upset or abdominal pain
- sweating
- cramping of the uterus or bleeding from the vagina
- vaginal dryness or irritation
- weight gain
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- bone pain
- coughing
- depression or feeling sad
- swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
- flu-like symptoms
- numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- mood changes
- joint or muscle pain
- shortness of breath
- stomach pain
- light colored stool
- symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
- blurring or changes of vision
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about ANASTROZOLE - ORAL
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.