ANASTROZOLE 1

Anastrozole is a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It functions by selectively inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for the peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogens. By suppressing systemic estrogen levels, anastrozole reduces the growth stimulus for estrogen-dependent tumors. It is commonly used as first-line therapy in early and advanced breast cancer and is often prescribed for 5 years or longer as adjuvant treatment. Unlike selective estrogen receptor modulators (e.g., tamoxifen), anastrozole does not exert partial agonist effects and has no direct estrogenic activity. Common side effects include hot flashes, arthralgia, fatigue, and bone mineral density loss. Long-term use requires monitoring for osteoporosis and cardiovascular risk, particularly in patients with predisposing conditions.