Brand
name: Altraz ( Altraz, Anastrozole
)
Pronounced: AR-i-mi-deks
Generic name: Anastrozole
Why is Altraz prescribed?
Altraz is a first-line treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal
women. It slows the growth of advanced cancer within the breast and
cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Altraz is also
used to treat advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women whose
disease has spread to other parts of the body following treatment with
tamoxifen (Nolvadex), another anticancer drug. Altraz can also be
prescribed along with other drugs to treat the early stages of breast
cancer in postmenopausal women.
Altraz combats the kind of breast cancer that thrives on estrogen.
One of the hormones produced by the adrenal gland is converted to a
form of estrogen by an enzyme called aromatase. Altraz suppresses
this enzyme and thereby reduces the level of estrogen circulating in
the body.
Most important fact about Altraz without prescriptions
Altraz, like many other anticancer medications, may prolong survival
and improve quality of life. To keep Altraz working properly, it's
important to continue taking it even when you don't feel well. If you
develop bothersome side effects, call your doctor. He or she can recommend
ways to reduce your discomfort.
How should you take Altraz?
Take Altraz exactly as directed.
If you miss a dose Altraz ( Arimidex, Anastrozole )
Take the forgotten dose if you remember within 12 hours. If it is
almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back
to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.
Storage Altraz ( Arimidex, Anastrozole ) instructions
Store at room temperature.
Altraz side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Altraz.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, accidental injury, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, bone pain,
breast pain, cataracts, chest pain, constipation, cough, depression, diarrhea,
dizziness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, fractures, headache, heart disease,
high blood pressure or cholesterol, hot flashes, infection, insomnia, joint
disease or pain, loss of appetite, nausea, osteoporosis, pain, pelvic pain
and stiffness, "pins and needles", rash, shortness of breath, sore
throat, stomach and intestinal upset, sweating, swelling of arms and legs,
urinary tract infection, vaginal discharge or inflammation, vomiting, weakness,
weight gain
Why should Altraz not be prescribed?
Do not take Altraz if you are pregnant or if you have an allergic
reaction to the drug.
Special warnings about Altraz
Because Altraz may raise the level of cholesterol in your blood,
your doctor may periodically do blood tests to check.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Altraz
Certain drugs may decrease the effectiveness of Altraz, including
tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and estrogen-containing drugs. Be sure to tell
your doctor about any medication you are taking.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, do not take Altraz.
In animal studies, Altraz has caused severe birth defects, including
incomplete bone formation and low birth weight; it could be poisonous
to your unborn child. Altraz also increases your chances of having
a miscarriage or a stillborn baby. If you should accidentally become
pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.
Because of the possibility of Altraz passing through your breast
milk to your baby, you should probably avoid breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Altraz
ADULTS
Overdosage
