Product Introduction:
Altraz 1 mg is a prescription anti-cancer medication used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is particularly effective for hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer, helping prevent cancer growth by blocking estrogen production.
Uses of Altraz 1 mg
Altraz 1 mg is primarily prescribed for:
-
Hormone Receptor-Positive (HR+) Breast Cancer – Used in postmenopausal women to slow cancer growth.
-
Early-Stage Breast Cancer – Reduces the risk of cancer returning after surgery or radiation.
-
Metastatic Breast Cancer – Helps control advanced or spreading breast cancer.
-
Adjuvant Therapy – Given after initial treatment to prevent cancer recurrence.
-
Neoadjuvant Therapy – Used before surgery to shrink tumors.
How Altraz 1 mg Works (Mechanism of Action):
-
Altraz (Anastrozole) is an aromatase inhibitor that works by blocking the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens into estrogen.
-
By reducing estrogen levels, it slows or stops the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancer cells.
-
It is particularly effective in postmenopausal women, where estrogen is mainly produced by peripheral tissues.
Dosage of Altraz 1 mg
Recommended Dosage:
-
Usual dose: 1 mg once daily.
-
Duration: Usually taken for 5 years, but may vary based on the doctor’s recommendation.
-
Dose adjustments: Typically not required unless severe side effects occur.
📌 Always follow the oncologist's prescription for best results.
Method of Administration (How to Take It)
-
Can be taken with or without food.
-
Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not crush, chew, or break it.
-
Take at the same time each day for consistent drug levels.
-
If vomiting occurs after taking the dose, do not retake the tablet—wait for the next scheduled dose.
Side Effects of Altraz 1 mg
Common Side Effects:
-
Hot flashes
-
Joint pain and stiffness
-
Fatigue and weakness
-
Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
-
Headache and dizziness
-
Nausea and vomiting
Severe Side Effects (Seek Medical Help Immediately):
-
Severe bone loss or fractures (increased risk of osteoporosis)
-
Liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, stomach pain)
-
Heart problems (chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in legs)
-
Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulties)
-
Blood clots (sudden numbness, slurred speech, vision changes)
⚠️ Regular bone density tests and heart monitoring may be required.
Precautions Before Taking Altraz 1 mg
-
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not safe; may cause harm to the baby.
-
Bone Health: May cause osteoporosis and fractures—calcium and vitamin D supplements may be needed.
-
Heart Conditions: Increased risk of heart disease or high cholesterol.
-
Liver or Kidney Disease: Requires dose adjustment or close monitoring.
-
Drowsiness or Dizziness: Avoid activities like driving if affected.
Drug Interactions (Medications That May Interact)
Altraz 1 mg can interact with:
-
Tamoxifen – Reduces the effectiveness of Anastrozole.
-
Estrogen Therapies (HRT, birth control pills) – Counteracts the drug’s effect.
-
Warfarin (Blood Thinners) – Increases risk of bleeding.
-
Rifampin & Carbamazepine – May lower Anastrozole levels, reducing effectiveness.
-
Corticosteroids – Can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
⚠️ Always inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
Allergy Warnings
-
Do not take Altraz if allergic to Anastrozole or its ingredients.
-
Signs of an allergic reaction:
-
Swelling of face, lips, or throat
-
Difficulty breathing
-
Severe rash or itching
-
Dizziness or fainting
🚨 Seek emergency medical help if an allergic reaction occurs.
Storage Instructions
-
Store at room temperature (15°C - 30°C / 59°F - 86°F).
-
Keep in original packaging to protect from moisture and light.
-
Keep away from children and pets.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of overdose:
-
Severe nausea and vomiting
-
Dizziness or fainting
-
Liver or kidney damage symptoms (yellow skin, confusion)
-
Severe weakness or drowsiness
What to do in case of overdose?
-
Seek immediate medical attention.
-
Hospitalization may be required for supportive care.
Missed Dose Instructions
-
If missed by less than 12 hours: Take the dose as soon as possible.
-
If missed by more than 12 hours: Skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose.
-
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
