Ever wondered how some breast cancer treatments lower estrogen without surgery? Anastrozole is an oral drug that blocks aromatase, the enzyme your body uses to make estrogen after menopause. Less estrogen means certain hormone-driven breast cancers grow more slowly or stop growing. That makes anastrozole a common choice for postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer.
Anastrozole is usually prescribed for postmenopausal women. If you’re premenopausal, it generally won’t work unless ovarian function is suppressed first. Typical dosing is one 1 mg tablet once a day, taken at the same time each day. You can take it with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose — don’t double up.
Doctors may use anastrozole alone, after surgery, or following other hormone therapies. Treatment length varies, commonly 5 to 10 years based on your situation and doctor’s plan. Your care team will decide what’s best for your cancer type and risk factors.
Common side effects include joint pain, hot flashes, tiredness, and bone thinning. Because anastrozole lowers estrogen, bone density can drop, raising the risk of fractures. Your doctor will likely check bone density before you start and during treatment. Calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and sometimes bone-preserving drugs (like bisphosphonates) can help protect bones.
Some people notice more cholesterol or joint stiffness. Simple measures often help: regular walks, gentle strength training, over-the-counter pain relievers after checking with your doctor, and moisturizing if your skin gets dry. If joint pain becomes severe or you have new swelling, tell your doctor — there are ways to manage it or adjust therapy.
Avoid estrogen-containing products while on anastrozole. Also mention all medicines and supplements you take, since some drugs can interact or affect liver processing. Do not use anastrozole during pregnancy or breastfeeding; it can harm a fetus.
Watch for red flags: chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, severe leg pain or swelling, or sudden, severe bone pain. These symptoms need prompt medical attention. Regular follow-up visits, blood tests, and bone checks help catch problems early.
Bottom line: anastrozole is a powerful tool for lowering estrogen in postmenopausal women with hormone-positive breast cancer. It works well for many people, but it needs monitoring for bone health and side effects. Talk openly with your oncologist about benefits, risks, and ways to make treatment easier on your body and daily life.