Anastrozole: Uses, Safety and Drug Interactions

Anastrozole: uses, safety and drug interactions

Overview: Anastrozole is an oral aromatase inhibitor that lowers oestrogen production. This summary follows the Sandoz UK product information for film-coated tablets. It describes a prescription medicine used under specialist supervision, rather than a general supplement or a way to adjust hormone levels without a diagnosis.

Uses and formulation: The referenced UK label includes hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, including selected early and advanced disease settings. Some treatment plans use anastrozole after an initial period of tamoxifen. The UK label also includes primary prevention for postmenopausal women at moderate or high breast cancer risk, after a trained clinician has assessed potential benefits and harms. Authorised indications can differ between countries.

Safety: Anastrozole must not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should not be used before menopause. Hot flushes, joint symptoms, nausea, headache and fatigue are common concerns. Reduced bone density and fractures require planned assessment and follow-up. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, facial swelling or a severe blistering rash; report persistent vaginal bleeding and new tendon symptoms promptly.

Drug interactions: Tamoxifen and oestrogen-containing medicines should not be taken concurrently because they can reduce the intended hormonal action. Sequential cancer treatment is different from taking both medicines together. Controlled studies did not identify a significant interaction with warfarin, but this does not replace the anticoagulation monitoring required for an individual patient. Tell the oncology team about contraception, hormone therapy and all other medicines before changing treatment.

Sources

• Sandoz Anastrozole 1 mg film-coated tablets, UK SmPC

This page provides an English summary of the cited sources. Source check: 30 October 2026. This date records a source check, not a clinical review by a doctor or pharmacist. Follow the current leaflet for your product and seek professional advice for personal treatment.