This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Arimidex Consumer Information
ARIMIDEX
Generic Name: anastrozole (ah NA stra zole)
Brand Names: Arimidex
What is the most important information I should know about anastrozole?
- Before taking anastrozole, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you take other medications. You may not be able to take anastrozole, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
What is anastrozole?
- Anastrozole blocks the use of estrogen by certain types of breast cancer that require estrogen to grow.
- Anastrozole is used to treat breast cancer.
- Anastrozole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take anastrozole?
- Before taking anastrozole, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you take other medications. You may not be able to take anastrozole, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
- Anastrozole is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that anastrozole is known to harm an unborn baby. Do not take anastrozole if you are pregnant.
- It is not known whether anastrozole passes into breast milk. Do not take anastrozole if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take anastrozole?
- Take anastrozole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- Anastrozole is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
- Anastrozole can be taken with or without food.
- Store anastrozole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.
What happens if I overdose?
- An overdose of anastrozole is unlikely to threaten life. Call an emergency room or a poison control left for advice if you suspect that a very large dose of anastrozole has been ingested.
What should I avoid while taking anastrozole?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking anastrozole unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.