Side Effects of anastrozole: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Anastrozole is a commonly used aromatase inhibitor for the treatment of hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. 21 Anastrozole blocks the production of estrogen, which is essential for the growth of breast cancer. 21

While anastrozole is effective in treating breast cancer, it can cause a number of side effects, including bone loss, joint pain, fatigue, and rash. 23 , 2 , 4 , 25 , 6

Anastrozole can also cause visual problems, such as papilledema and other eye issues. 14 , 5

Anastrozole may also cause liver damage, which is a rare but serious side effect. 20

Reasons for Side Effects

Anastrozole's side effects are caused by its inhibition of estrogen production. Estrogen is essential for bone health, joint function, and overall energy levels. Therefore, blocking estrogen production can lead to bone loss, joint pain, and fatigue. 21 Anastrozole's effects on the eye are not fully understood, but may be related to its impact on hormonal balance. 14 Liver damage is a rare side effect that may be caused by anastrozole's metabolism in the liver. 20

Common Side Effects

Bone Loss

Anastrozole can cause bone loss, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis. 12 , 23 , 3

Joint Pain

Anastrozole can cause joint pain, which can be a significant problem for some patients. 16 , 2 , 4

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common side effect of anastrozole. 4

Rash

A skin rash is a possible side effect of anastrozole. 25 , 6

Visual Impairment

Anastrozole may cause visual problems, such as papilledema, macular edema, and uveitis. 14 , 5

Liver Damage

Liver damage is a rare side effect of anastrozole. 20

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Bone Loss

To help prevent bone loss, patients taking anastrozole should ensure they are getting enough calcium and vitamin D. 23 , 3

Joint Pain

Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications can be used to manage joint pain. 2

Fatigue

Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can help to combat fatigue. 4

Rash

If a rash develops, it is important to consult a doctor. They may prescribe topical corticosteroids or oral medications. 25

Visual Impairment

If visual problems occur, it is crucial to see an ophthalmologist immediately. 14

Liver Damage

If liver damage is suspected, a doctor should be consulted immediately. 20

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities among Studies

Multiple studies have shown that anastrozole is effective in treating hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. 12 , 21 , 16

Multiple studies have shown that anastrozole may increase the risk of bone loss. 12 , 23 , 3

Differences between Studies

There is some variation in the reported side effects of anastrozole across studies. For instance, some studies have found that anastrozole can cause joint pain, 16 , 2 , 4 while others have found that it is less likely to cause this side effect. 12

Precautions for Application in Real Life

Anastrozole is a powerful medication with the potential for serious side effects. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of anastrozole with a doctor before starting treatment. 20

Patients taking anastrozole should make sure to get enough calcium and vitamin D to help protect their bones. 23 , 3

If joint pain occurs, patients should talk to their doctor about ways to manage it. 16 , 2 , 4

Patients should be aware of the potential for visual problems and report any changes in vision to their doctor promptly. 14 , 5

Limitations of Current Research

More research is needed to fully understand the side effects of anastrozole. 14

Studies on anastrozole's side effects need to include larger participant groups to account for individual differences in response. 23

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on the long-term side effects of anastrozole and its potential interactions with other medications. 12

Identifying biomarkers to predict the risk of anastrozole side effects in individual patients would be valuable. 23

Conclusion

Anastrozole is an effective treatment for hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, but it can have serious side effects. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of anastrozole treatment with a doctor. 12 , 21

Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
17
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
6
Article Type
1
0
0
7
21
1.

The influence of genetic polymorphisms on the efficacy and side effects of anastrozole in postmenopausal breast cancer patients.

Author: AbubakarMurtala B, WeiKeat, GanSiew Hua

Breast cancer treatment
Breast cancer recurrence
Musculoskeletal symptoms

This review examines the role of genetic polymorphisms of CYP19A1, CYP3A4, and UGT1A4 in the responses of postmenopausal breast cancer patients to anastrozole. Genetic factors can contribute to variability in anastrozole's efficacy and side effects, highlighting the need for pharmacogenomic studies to personalize treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

2.

A case of aromatase inhibitor (anastrozole)-induced side-effects successfully treated with Kampo medicines.

Author: ChinoAtsushi, OkamotoHideki, HirasakiYoshiro, UedaKeigo, OgawaKeiko, NamikiTakao

Treatment of breast cancer
AIs-induced side-effects

This report describes the effects of Kampo medicines (Japanese traditional medicines) on side effects caused by aromatase inhibitors (AIs) used to treat breast cancer.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

3.

Side effects of anastrozole in the experimental pre-menopausal mammary carcinogenesis.

Author: SadlonovaV, KubatkaP, KajoK, OstatnikovaD, NosalovaG, AdamicovaK, SadlonovaJ

Cancer prevention
Bone thickness increase
Myometrium changes
Weight gain

This study investigated the side effects of the aromatase inhibitor anastrozole in preventing N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced premenopausal mammary carcinogenesis in female Sprague-Dawley rats. The study mimicked the situation in healthy, high-risk premenopausal women from the perspective of breast cancer development. The animals received anastrozole in their food throughout the experiment, with Group 1 (control) receiving food without anastrozole, Group 2 receiving 0.05 mg/1 kg of food (ANA 0.05), and Group 3 receiving 0.5 mg/1 kg of food (ANA 0.5). Anastrozole-treated animals did not show macroscopic changes in the uterus or vagina, and the absolute and relative wet weights of the uterus and vagina were comparable to controls in both ANA 0.05 and ANA 0.5 groups. Histological examination revealed no atrophic changes in the endometrium of the uterus or epithelium of the vagina in anastrozole-treated animals. However, the myometrium was significantly thicker in the ANA 0.5 group compared to the ANA 0.05 group (P<0.05). Anastrozole did not affect plasma lipid metabolism parameters (triacylglycerols, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol) or serum levels of sex hormones (estradiol, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone). Compact bone thickness was significantly increased in anastrozole-treated animals compared to untreated animals (P<0.001). The ANA 0.5 group had a significant increase in body weight compared to the control group (P<0.01), but this increase was not accompanied by a significant increase in food intake. In conclusion, the side effects of anastrozole in this model were observed in the myometrium, compact bone thickness, and body weight gain.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Partially Reversible Bilateral Papilledema in a Patient Using Anastrozole: A Case Study.

Author: WortsmanJoshua, ProskuriakovaEkaterina, AryalBarun, KhanSarah, SanchezDanielle, AnthonyKyle, KhoslaPam

Papilledema

This case report highlights the potential for anastrozole, a medication used to treat breast cancer, to cause ocular side effects, specifically papilledema. The patient experienced severe bilateral papilledema that resolved after discontinuation of the medication.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

6.

Segmental Erythema Multiforme: An Unusual Drug Reaction to Anastrozole.

Author: PodujeSanja, VujevićLuka, FilipovićNika, VučićMajda, BuljanMarija

Breast cancer management
Segmental erythema multiforme

Erythema multiforme (EM) is a hypersensitivity syndrome that can be caused by various medications. This case report describes a patient who developed segmental erythema multiforme after starting anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor used to treat breast cancer.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

8.

Adherence to oral anticancer hormonal therapy in breast cancer patients and its relationship with treatment satisfaction: an important insight from a developing country.

Author: KoniAmer A, SuwanBushra A, NazzalMaisa A, SleemAlaa, DaifallahAiman, AllahMajd Hamed, OdehRazan Y, ZyoudSa'ed H

Adherence
Treatment satisfaction

This study evaluated the adherence of women with hormone-positive breast cancer to oral hormonal drugs and correlated it with treatment satisfaction, sociodemographic factors, and clinical factors.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.

Language : English

9.

Effect of Aromatase Inhibitors on Serum Calprotectin Levels in an Animal Experimental Model: Trial.

Author: BoutasIoannis, KontogeorgiAdamantia, KoufopoulosNektarios, DimitrakakisConstantine, DimasDionysios, KalantaridouSophia N, KorouLaskarina-Maria, PerreaDespoina

Breast Cancer Treatment
Side Effects

This study investigated the correlation between aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole and letrozole) and Calprotectin levels in an experimental animal model.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

10.

A Likely Case of Abemaciclib-Induced Hyperpigmentation in a Patient With Metastatic Breast Cancer.

Author: Salusti-SimpsonMichela, PorterHannah, MorleyKeith

Abemaciclib hyperpigmentation

Abemaciclib, a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor used for breast cancer, may cause hyperpigmentation of the skin. This case report highlights the importance of being aware of potential cutaneous side effects of this drug.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

11.

New-onset hallucinations with amiodarone: a case report.

Author: MolinaroJessica, DeVriesPeter, HaJennifer, KnightJennifer M

Hallucinations

Amiodarone is a commonly used antiarrhythmic for atrial fibrillation, but psychiatric adverse reactions are uncommon. The study reports a rare case of hallucinations associated with amiodarone, highlighting the importance of recognizing this potential side effect.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

12.

Ocular Side Effects of Aromatase Inhibitor Endocrine Therapy in Breast Cancer - A Review.

Author: SerbanDragos, CosteaDaniel Ovidiu, ZguraAnca, TudosieMihail Silviu, DascaluAna Maria, GanguraGabriel Andrei, SmarandacheCatalin Gabriel, Dan SabauAlexandru, TudorCorneliu, FaurMihai, CosteaAndreea Cristina, StanaDaniela, BalasescuSimona Andreea, TribusLaura Carina, TanasescuCiprian

Effective breast cancer treatment
Ocular side effects
Vision impairment

This review examined the ocular side effects of aromatase inhibitor (AI) treatment in patients with breast cancer. AI treatment can cause a range of ocular side effects, from dry eye symptoms to severe vision loss due to retinal and optic nerve damage. This highlights the importance of ophthalmic screening during AI treatment for early detection and management of potential visual problems.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

13.

Clinical application of aromatase inhibitors to treat male infertility.

Author: YangChao, LiPeng, LiZheng

Hormonal balance
Improved spermatogenesis
Aromatase inhibitor side effects

This review discusses the use of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) to treat male infertility. AIs are drugs that block the production of estrogen. The review concludes that more research is needed to determine whether AIs are effective and safe for treating male infertility.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

15.

Adherence to Adjuvant Hormonal Therapy and Associated Factors Among Women with Breast Cancer Attending the Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa Ethiopia, 2019: A Cross-sectional Study.

Author: WakoZerko, MengistuDaniel, DinegdeNegalign Getahun, AsefaTseganesh, WassieMulugeta

Adjuvant Hormone Therapy

This study aimed to investigate adherence to adjuvant hormone therapy (AHT) among women with breast cancer and identify related factors.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

Endocrine prevention of breast cancer.

Author: JahanNusrat, JonesCatherine, RahmanRakhshanda Layeequr

Prevent BC
Side effects

Breast cancer (BC) is a significant health concern for women worldwide. Endocrine therapy, like tamoxifen and raloxifene, can effectively prevent BC in high-risk women. However, underutilization of endocrine prevention is common, due to factors like infrequent risk assessment, lack of provider knowledge, concerns about side effects, and poor adherence. This review discusses the importance of endocrine prevention and explores strategies to improve its usage.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

17.

Establishment of an analytical method for simultaneous quantitation of CDK4/6 inhibitors, aromatase inhibitors, and an estrogen receptor antagonist in human plasma using LC-ESI-MS/MS.

Author: SatoYu, ShigetaKensuke, HirasawaTensei, SatoToshihiro, OguraJiro, MaekawaMasamitsu, EbataAkiko, HamanakaYohei, TadaHiroshi, IshidaTakanori, KikuchiMasafumi, ManoNariyasu

Breast cancer treatment
Diarrhea
Neutropenia

This study describes a simple, highly sensitive, and specific liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method for simultaneous quantitation of CDK4/6 inhibitors, aromatase inhibitors, and an estrogen receptor antagonist.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

18.

First clinical experience with CDK4/6 inhibitors in breast cancer therapy.

Author: CobecIonut Marcel, MoleriuLavinia, MoatarAurica Elisabeta, RempenAndreas

Breast cancer treatment

This study followed and registered initial clinical experience with CDK4/6 inhibitors in hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer patients with metastatic or advanced disease.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

19.

Switching of Hormone Therapies in Breast Cancer Women.

Author: MedeirosLuana Moreira de, StahlschmidtRebeca, FerraciniAmanda Canato, SouzaCinthia Madeira de, JuliatoCassia Raquel Teatin, MazzolaPriscila Gava

Disease progression
Side effects

Disease progression was the most common reason for changing hormone therapy regimens in women with breast cancer, followed by side effects. Age and comorbidities were risk factors for side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

20.

Drug-induced liver injury after switching from tamoxifen to anastrozole in a patient with a history of breast cancer being treated for hypertension and diabetes.

Author: PotmešilPetr, SzotkowskáRadka

Breast cancer treatment
Hepatotoxicity

Anastrozole can cause hepatotoxicity. A case report highlights the potential for drug interactions with other medications, like tamoxifen, telmisartan, metformin, amlodipine, and gliquidone. Genetic polymorphisms may also play a role.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

21.

Aromatase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Breast Cancer: A Journey from the Scratch.

Author: RatrePooja, MishraKeerti, DubeyAmit, VyasAmber, JainAkhlesh, TharejaSuresh

Breast cancer treatment
Effective for ER+

Aromatase inhibitors are a type of medication that blocks the production of estrogen, which is a key driver of breast cancer growth. These medications are particularly effective in treating estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Third-generation aromatase inhibitors, like letrozole, anastrozole, and exemestane, are now standard treatments for postmenopausal breast cancer.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

22.

Aromatase Inhibitors Plus Weight Loss Improves the Hormonal Profile of Obese Hypogonadal Men Without Causing Major Side Effects.

Author: ColleluoriGeorgia, ChenRui, TurinChristie G, VigevanoFrancesca, QuallsClifford, JohnsonBiju, MediwalaSanjay, VillarealDennis T, Armamento-VillarealReina

hypogonadism treatment
cholesterol increase

Aromatase inhibitor plus weight loss therapy improved the hormonal profile of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in obese men but did not lead to significant improvements in muscle strength or symptoms compared to weight loss alone. While the therapy resulted in higher fat mass loss and did not have major side effects, it led to a minimal increase in total and LDL cholesterol and a decrease in tibial trabecular bone area.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

23.

Representation of CYP3A4, CYP3A5 and UGT1A4 Polymorphisms within Croatian Breast Cancer Patients' Population.

Author: BojanicKristina, KunaLucija, Bilic CurcicInes, WagnerJasenka, SmolicRobert, KralikKristina, KizivatTomislav, IvanacGordana, VcevAleksandar, WuGeorge Y, SmolicMartina

Side Effects

This study analyzed the frequency of CYP3A4*1B, CYP3A5*3, and UGT1A4*2 SNPs in Croatian breast cancer (BC) patients and their possible association with anastrozole-induced undesirable side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

24.

Changes in serum estradiol levels with Estring in postmenopausal women with breast cancer treated with aromatase inhibitors.

Author: StreffAlyssa, Chu-PilliMichele, StopeckAlison, ChalasaniPavani

Urogenital symptom treatment

The study explored the safety and efficacy of using vaginal estrogen to treat urogenital symptoms in patients on aromatase inhibitor therapy for breast cancer. While the results suggested potential benefits, further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm the findings.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIA Phase II trial is a trial that further evaluates the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose safety has been confirmed to some extent in a Phase I trial, in a small number of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

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