ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It's often taken for 5 years or more after surgery.
What it's used for
- Hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer after menopause
How to take it
- Take it once a day at the same time, with or without food.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Hot flashes
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Tiredness
- Bone thinning
Call 911Chest pain or shortness of breath
Call your provider todayA broken bone from a minor fall
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever
Warnings
- Your provider will check bone density; calcium, vitamin D, or bone medicine may be added.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Estrogen-containing medicines and tamoxifen work against it.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not used in pregnancy.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Anastrozole (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.