Anastrozole, Oral, 1 mg (S0170)

Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): Anastrozole
Technical/Medical Term: Oral administration of Anastrozole (1 mg)

Summary

Anastrozole is a medication taken orally in tablet form, mainly prescribed to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It works by lowering estrogen levels in the body, which can help to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells that need estrogen to grow.

Purpose

Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed:

• Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• To reduce estrogen levels in the body.
• To slow or halt the growth of estrogen-dependent cancer cells.
• To manage and potentially reduce the size of breast cancer tumors.

Indications

Symptoms or Conditions Warranting the Procedure:

• Diagnosis of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
• High risk of recurrence of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Patient Criteria/Appropriateness:

• Postmenopausal women diagnosed with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
• Patients who have completed initial treatments such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Preparation

Pre-medication Instructions:

• No specific preparation, fasting, or adjustments in current medication typically required.
• Follow the prescribing physician’s instructions.

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments Required:

• Hormone receptor testing to confirm the type of breast cancer.
• Regular monitoring of liver function and cholesterol levels may be advised.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Prescription: Obtain a prescription for Anastrozole from your healthcare provider.
2. Administration: Swallow the Anastrozole tablet whole with water. Generally, the dose is 1 mg taken once daily.
3. Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor effectiveness and any side effects.

Tools/Equipment/Technology Used:

• Oral medication (tablet form).

Anesthesia/Sedation Details:

• Not applicable; taken orally without need for anesthesia or sedation.

Duration

Typical Duration:

• The medication is taken daily, often for several years as prescribed by the healthcare provider.

Setting

Where Performed:

• This is an at-home medication. However, ongoing monitoring and consultations take place in an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Oncologist (primary prescriber)
• Primary care physician
• Pharmacist for dispensing the medication

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Hot flashes
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Joint pain

Rare Risks:

• Osteoporosis
• Liver abnormalities
• Cardiovascular issues
• Severe allergic reactions

Possible Complications & Management:

• Regular monitoring for bone density and liver function.
• Management of side effects with additional medications or therapies.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Reduced estrogen levels.
• Slowdown or regression of tumor growth.
• Reduction in risk of cancer recurrence.

Realization Timeframe:

• Benefits may take weeks to months to become apparent; regular follow-ups and tests can judge effectiveness.

Recovery

Post-procedure Care/Instructions:

• Consistent daily intake of the medication.
• Regular medical check-ups to monitor effectiveness and side effects.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Long-term treatment, often spanning several years as part of a cancer management plan.

Restrictions/Follow-up Appointments:

• Few activity restrictions, but regular follow-ups and adherence to the medication regimen are essential.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Tamoxifen
• Letrozole (another aromatase inhibitor)
• Exemestane

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Tamoxifen is often used in premenopausal women but may have different side effect profiles.
• Letrozole and Exemestane are also aromatase inhibitors but individual response and tolerability may vary.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Simply involves ingesting a pill daily.

After the Procedure:

• Potential side effects such as hot flashes and joint pain; manageable with supportive care.
• Importance of routine follow-up appointments to monitor and manage any side effects.

Pain Management/Comfort Measures:

• OTC medications for joint pain.
• Lifestyle modifications for managing hot flashes.

By understanding the full scope of treatment with Anastrozole, patients can better prepare for and manage their therapy for improved health outcomes.