Annifer 1 mg contains Anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor used to treat hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It works by blocking estrogen production, slowing or stopping cancer growth.
Annifer 1mg contains Anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor that reduces the production of estrogen in the body. Since many breast cancers grow in response to estrogen, lowering its levels helps prevent cancer progression or recurrence. It is typically taken once daily as part of long-term breast cancer treatment.
Uses:
Annifer 1mg is used for:
Treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women
Adjuvant therapy after surgery or radiation for early-stage breast cancer
First-line treatment of advanced or metastatic breast cancer
Prevention of cancer recurrence in high-risk patients
Treatment of ovarian cancer or endometriosis (off-label use)
Fertility treatment in PCOS (off-label, under specialist guidance)
Storage Instructions:
Store at room temperature (15°C to 30°C)
Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
Keep out of reach of children and pets
Do not use after the expiry date
How It Works (Mechanism of Action):
Anastrozole works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens into estrogen. In postmenopausal women, estrogen is mainly produced through this pathway. By blocking estrogen synthesis, Anastrozole starves hormone-sensitive tumors of their growth fuel, leading to tumor shrinkage or stabilization.
Side Effects:
Common side effects:
Hot flashes
Joint pain or stiffness
Weakness or fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Severe side effects (less common):
Osteoporosis or bone fractures
Liver enzyme elevation
Depression or mood swings
Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Blood clotting issues or cardiovascular problems
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
1 mg orally once daily, with or without food
Duration depends on individual response and treatment plan (usually 5 years in adjuvant therapy)
Method of Administration:
Taken by mouth with water
Can be taken with or without meals
Should be taken at the same time every day
Do not chew or crush the tablet
Precautions:
Not recommended for premenopausal women unless under specialist care
Monitor bone mineral density regularly due to risk of osteoporosis
Use cautiously in patients with liver or kidney impairment
Avoid alcohol to reduce liver strain
Inform your doctor about any history of heart disease or blood clots
Drug Interactions:
May interact with estrogen-containing drugs (e.g., hormone replacement therapy, contraceptives)
Use with caution with Tamoxifen – may reduce Anastrozole’s effectiveness
Interactions with CYP3A4 substrates are possible, although rare
Allergies:
Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to Anastrozole or any excipients in the formulation
Seek immediate medical attention for allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling
Overdose Information:
Overdose may cause symptoms like dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or severe fatigue
No specific antidote – treatment is symptomatic and supportive
In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention
Missed Dose Instructions:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember
If it’s close to the next dose, skip the missed dose – do not double up
Maintain a consistent dosing schedule for best results
Additional Notes:
Regular monitoring of bone density and cholesterol levels is advised
Patients should maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
Use contraception if premenopausal and advised to take Anastrozole
Can be part of a comprehensive cancer treatment plan including surgery, radiation, and other therapies
