What should you know about anastrozole (Arimidex)?

It is an aromatase inhibitor taken by mouth. Whether it suits you depends on the cancer's hormone-receptor features, menopausal status, other medicines, bone health and the wider treatment plan.

Aromatase helps the body make oestrogen outside the ovaries. Blocking this enzyme reduces the oestrogen available to encourage hormone-sensitive cancer cells. Arimidex is a brand name; anastrozole is the active medicine. It is different from chemotherapy and may be used after surgery or in another setting chosen by the oncology team.

Possible effects include hot flushes, joint or muscle discomfort, tiredness, headache, vaginal dryness and mood changes. Lower oestrogen can also weaken bones over time, so clinicians may assess bone health and address calcium, vitamin D, exercise or bone-protecting treatment when appropriate.

Take anastrozole exactly as prescribed and at a consistent time. If you miss a dose, follow the instructions from your prescriber or pharmacy rather than doubling the next dose. Do not stop because of joint pain or another side effect without contacting the cancer team; they can check other causes and discuss symptom relief or treatment alternatives.

Give the team a current list of prescriptions, non-prescription medicines and supplements. Mention previous fractures, osteoporosis, high cholesterol, liver problems, pregnancy possibility or medicines containing oestrogen. Attend planned reviews and any requested bone or blood tests.

Contact the treating team promptly for a new severe headache, yellow skin or eyes, marked weakness, persistent vomiting, unusual vaginal bleeding, or pain and swelling that disrupt daily activity. Seek emergency help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, facial or throat swelling, fainting, or sudden weakness or difficulty speaking. These symptoms need urgent assessment rather than waiting for the next appointment.

Ask why anastrozole was selected for your cancer, how it fits with surgery, radiotherapy or other medicines, and which side effects should trigger a same-day call. It is also useful to ask how bone health will be checked, what activity may ease joint stiffness, and whom to contact if a dose is missed.