Altraz Anastrozole Tablet

Product Description

Altraz (Anastrozole) is a medication that contains Anastrozole as its active ingredient. Anastrozole is primarily used in the treatment of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. It is classified as an aromatase inhibitor, which helps to reduce estrogen levels in the body.

Key Details about Altraz (Anastrozole) Tablet:

Active Ingredient:

• Anastrozole (commonly available in 1 mg tablets)

Common Uses:

• Breast cancer treatment: Anastrozole is mainly prescribed for the treatment of estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer in postmenopausal women. In ER-positive cancers, the growth of cancer cells is stimulated by estrogen, so reducing estrogen levels can help slow or stop the growth of the cancer.
• Adjuvant therapy: After initial treatment (like surgery), Anastrozole is used to lower the risk of recurrence of breast cancer.
• Metastatic breast cancer: It is also used to treat advanced or metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women, where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Mechanism of Action:

• Aromatase inhibition: Anastrozole works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens (male hormones) into estrogen. Since estrogen can fuel the growth of certain types of breast cancer, lowering its levels can help slow or stop the cancer's growth.
• It is used specifically in postmenopausal women because, after menopause, the ovaries stop producing estrogen, and the aromatase enzyme becomes the primary source of estrogen in the body.

Dosage:

• The usual dosage is 1 mg once daily, taken by mouth, with or without food.
• Treatment duration: Treatment may last for several years, depending on the individual™s condition, with regular follow-up with the oncologist to assess effectiveness and monitor for side effects.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects:
  • Hot flashes
  • Joint pain or stiffness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Increased sweating
  • Bone thinning or osteoporosis (due to the lowering of estrogen)
• Serious side effects:
  • Bone fractures (due to decreased bone density)
  • Heart problems, such as high blood pressure or changes in heart function
  • Liver problems (rare but can occur)
  • Vaginal bleeding or changes in menstruation (though rare in postmenopausal women)

Precautions:

• Bone health: Because Anastrozole can decrease bone density, women on long-term therapy may need to monitor bone health through regular bone density tests. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended.
• Liver function: Women with liver problems may require dose adjustments or close monitoring.
• Pregnancy: Anastrozole is not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of harm to a developing baby. It should be avoided during childbearing years, especially before menopause.

Interactions:

• Medications: Anastrozole can interact with other medications, particularly hormone therapies and medications that affect liver enzymes. Always inform the healthcare provider about any other medications being taken.
• Alcohol and grapefruit: It™s generally recommended to avoid alcohol and grapefruit while taking Anastrozole, as they can interfere with the drug™s metabolism.

Administration:

• Anastrozole is taken orally as a tablet. It is important to take it exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.