Anastracare 1 mg

• Slows the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancer

• Helps lower the chance of early breast cancer returning

• Supports the treatment of advanced or metastatic breast cancer

• Provides a once-daily oral treatment

• Does not require hospital administration

• Can form part of a long-term cancer treatment plan

The expected benefit depends on the cancer’s hormone-receptor status, stage, previous treatment and individual response.

After menopause, the ovaries produce very little oestrogen. However, the body continues making small amounts of it by using an enzyme called aromatase.

Anastrozole blocks this enzyme. As a result, the body produces less oestrogen. Lower oestrogen levels make it more difficult for hormone-sensitive breast cancer cells to grow and spread.

This treatment does not kill every cancer cell immediately. It controls the hormonal signal that supports cancer growth, which is why treatment often continues for several years.

The standard anastrozole dose for adults is one 1 mg tablet once daily. Anastracare can be taken with or without food, preferably at approximately the same time each day.

Treatment for early breast cancer often continues for several years. In advanced breast cancer, it may continue while the cancer remains controlled. The exact treatment period is decided by the oncology team.

Swallow the tablet with water. If a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless the next dose is nearly due. Do not take two tablets together to replace a missed dose, and do not stop treatment without consulting the prescribing specialist.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects include hot flushes, joint or muscle pain, tiredness, headache, nausea, difficulty sleeping, low mood, skin rash and mild swelling. Anastrozole can also cause vaginal dryness or bleeding. These effects should be discussed with the treatment team if they become persistent or difficult to manage.

Serious Side Effects

Long-term treatment can reduce bone strength and increase the risk of osteoporosis or fractures. Anastrozole may also raise cholesterol levels. Obtain prompt medical help for chest pain, sudden breathing difficulty, weakness on one side of the body, severe skin reactions, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of liver problems such as yellow skin or eyes.

Do not take Anastracare 1 mg Tablet following a previous serious allergic reaction to anastrozole or any ingredient in the tablet. It must not be used during pregnancy because it can harm an unborn baby, and breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment. Anastracare is mainly intended for postmenopausal women and should not be used before menopause unless an oncology specialist has included it in a carefully managed treatment plan.

Patients with osteoporosis, high cholesterol, heart disease or severe liver problems require medical assessment and appropriate monitoring before and during treatment. 

Tell the oncologist or pharmacist about all medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements being taken.

Important interactions include:

• Tamoxifen

• Hormone replacement therapy

• Oestrogen-containing medicines

• Oestrogen-containing contraceptives

• Menopause remedies and supplements

• Other hormonal cancer treatments

Tamoxifen should not normally be taken at the same time as anastrozole. Medicines or supplements containing oestrogen may work against Anastracare and reduce its effectiveness. Do not begin a hormone treatment, menopause remedy or supplement without approval from the oncology team.

• Store below 30°C.

• Keep the tablets in their original packaging.

• Protect them from heat, moisture and direct sunlight.

• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

• Do not use tablets that are damaged or discoloured.

• Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.

• Ask a pharmacist how to dispose of unused tablets safely