Generic Anastrozole

Common Use
Anastrozole is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by lowering estrogen levels in the body, which helps slow the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors. It is also sometimes used off-label in men for conditions related to high estrogen, such as gynecomastia.

Dosage and Direction
Anastrozole is taken orally once daily, usually as a 1 mg tablet with or without food. It should be taken at the same time each day. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not stop treatment without medical advice.

Precautions
Inform your doctor if you have osteoporosis, liver disease, or a history of cardiovascular problems. Bone density may decrease during treatment, so calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended. Regular blood tests may be required to monitor liver function and hormone levels.

Contraindications
Anastrozole is contraindicated in premenopausal women, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those allergic to the drug. It should not be used with estrogen-containing therapies or in women with severe osteoporosis unless benefits outweigh risks.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include hot flashes, joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and headache. Serious effects may include bone thinning (osteoporosis), heart problems, and liver abnormalities. Seek medical help for symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe weakness.

Drug Interaction
Avoid taking anastrozole with estrogen-containing medications, tamoxifen, or hormone replacement therapy. Inform your doctor about all other medications, including supplements and herbal products, as some may interfere with its effectiveness.

Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it’s near the time of your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are not well defined but may include dizziness, weakness, and gastrointestinal upset. Seek emergency medical attention in case of suspected overdose.

Storage
Store at room temperature away from light, moisture, and heat. Keep in the original packaging and out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)