Anastrozole

Other Names: Arimidex.

Commonly Prescribed For: Anastrozole can be used alone or combined with other treatments like surgery or radiation for treating breast cancer in women.

How to Take it: Anastrozole is available in the form of a tablet to be taken via mouth. This medication is generally taken once every day, either with food or without food. Take Anastrozole as prescribed around the same time daily.

How it Works: Anastrozole belongs to a group of drugs known as nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors. It decreases the quantity of estrogen secreted by the body. This medication impedes the growth of breast cancer cells required for estrogen to grow.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include weakness, hair thinning, headache, dry mouth, hot flashes, vaginal dryness or irritation, sweating, vaginal bleeding, stomach pain, dizziness, nausea, nervousness, vomiting, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, depression, constipation, mood changes, diarrhea, breast pain, muscle pain and heartburn. Serious side effects include chest pain, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, shortness of breath, painful urination, itching, blurred vision, hives, inflammation of the face, hands or lower legs, and skin lesions.