Anastrozole: What is it and How Does it Work?

Anastrozole, commonly known by its brand name Arimidex, is a medication used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, which work by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase. Aromatase is responsible for converting androgens into estrogen, which can fuel the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells.

How does Anastrozole work?

Anastrozole works by blocking the production of estrogen in postmenopausal women, which can help slow down or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer Anastrozol Fair-Med Healthcare 1 mg cells. By reducing estrogen levels in the body, anastrozole can help prevent cancer recurrence and improve overall survival rates in women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer.

Who can benefit from using Anastrozole?

Postmenopausal women diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer are typically prescribed anastrozole as part of their treatment plan. It is often used in combination with other therapies, such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

In addition to treating breast cancer, anastrozole may also be prescribed off-label to treat conditions such as infertility and gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men) caused by hormonal imbalances.

In conclusion, anastrozole is a powerful medication used in the treatment of breast cancer. By inhibiting estrogen production in postmenopausal women, it can help slow down or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells. If you have been prescribed anastrozole, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and report any side effects promptly.