Altraz Tablet (Anastrozole) | Arimidex Alternative | Used to Treat Breast Cancer in Postmenopausal Women
Altraz Tablet (Anastrozole) is a hormonal therapy used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to the class of aromatase inhibitors that work by reducing the production of oestrogen in the body, helping to slow or stop the growth of oestrogen-dependent breast cancer cells. It is used both as an adjuvant treatment after surgery and for advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
Product Overview
Altraz Tablet is a critical hormonal therapy medication primarily used in the management of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It contains Anastrozole, which belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. By significantly reducing the amount of estrogen produced in the body, Altraz helps to slow or stop the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells that rely on estrogen to thrive. This anticancer tablet is a gold standard for patients transitioning from surgical or radiation treatments to long-term endocrine therapy.
Product Composition
- Anastrozole IP: 1 mg (Active Ingredient)
- Lactose Monohydrate: 93 mg (Excipient)
- Coating: Film-coated for improved stability and ease of ingestion
- Other Ingredients: Magnesium Stearate, Hypromellose, and Polyethylene Glycol
Product Specification
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Name | Altraz |
| Active Molecule | Anastrozole |
| Therapeutic Class | Nonsteroidal Aromatase Inhibitor |
| Dosage Strength | 1 mg |
| Physical Appearance | White, round, biconvex film-coated tablets |
Mechanism of Action
- Functions as a potent and highly selective nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor.
- Targets and inhibits the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for converting androgens into estrogens in peripheral tissues.
- Significantly lowers serum estradiol concentrations, effectively removing the primary growth stimulus for estrogen-dependent tumors.
- Unlike some older therapies, it does not affect the production of adrenal corticosteroids or aldosterone, maintaining a more targeted oncological profile.
Key Benefits
- Recurrence Prevention: Highly effective as an adjuvant treatment to reduce the risk of cancer returning after surgery or radiation.
- Targeted Cancer Control: Specifically designed for postmenopausal breast cancer, where peripheral estrogen production is the main driver of disease.
- Improved Survival Rates: Clinical data suggests higher efficacy and better tolerance compared to traditional treatments like Tamoxifen for certain patient groups.
- Metastatic Management: Serves as a reliable first-line treatment for advanced breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
- Convenient Dosing: The once-daily oral regimen supports long-term patient compliance during the multi-year treatment journey.
Precautions
| Condition or Situation | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Bone health issues | May reduce bone density and increase fracture risk |
| Osteoporosis | Use with caution and monitor bone strength regularly |
| Liver disease | Use carefully as liver function may be affected |
| Heart disease | Monitor cardiovascular health during treatment |
| Pregnancy | Not for use during pregnancy due to risk to fetus |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid use while breastfeeding |
| Hormone therapy | Inform doctor about other hormonal treatments |
| High cholesterol | May increase cholesterol levels |
| Allergies | Avoid if allergic to Anastrozole or similar medicines |
| Elderly patients | Require regular monitoring for side effects |
Important Safety Information
- Take Altraz Tablet exactly as prescribed
- Do not stop treatment without medical advice
- Regular bone density monitoring is recommended
- Maintain calcium and vitamin D intake as advised
- Report joint pain, bone pain, or unusual weakness
- Use effective contraception if applicable as advised by doctor
Usage
Altraz Tablet is a specialized breast cancer medication that plays a vital role in long-term hormone therapy. To achieve maximum efficacy from your Anastrozole treatment, it is essential to follow a consistent daily routine, as this maintains a steady suppression of estrogen levels in the body.
Dosage Guidelines
| Indication | Recommended Dosage | Frequency |
| Adjuvant Treatment (Early Stage) | 1 mg Tablet | Once daily |
| Advanced or Metastatic Cancer | 1 mg Tablet | Once daily |
| Postmenopausal Women | 1 mg Tablet | Continuous daily therapy |
Administration Steps
Fixed Schedule: Take your hormonal tablet at the same time every day to ensure a constant therapeutic level in your system.
Method of Intake: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; the film-coated design is intended for easy ingestion.
Food Compatibility: You can take this Anastrozole pill either with or without food, as its absorption is not significantly affected by meals.
Long-Term Commitment: For early-stage cancer, this endocrine therapy is typically prescribed for a period of 5 years, so maintaining a routine is crucial.
Missed Dose Action: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.
Bone Health Monitoring: Since this medication lowers estrogen, it is often recommended to monitor bone mineral density during the course of treatment.
Uses
Adjuvant Treatment: Used as a primary follow-up therapy for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer after surgery.
Advanced Breast Cancer: Acts as a first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer that has spread to other organs.
Tamoxifen Alternative: Often prescribed to patients who have completed 2 to 3 years of Tamoxifen therapy and are switching to an aromatase inhibitor for better outcomes.
Estrogen Suppression: Specifically utilized to treat cancers that are fueled by estrogen, ensuring that residual cancer cells do not receive the hormones they need to grow.
Prevention in High-Risk Cases: In specific clinical scenarios, it is used to lower the incidence of breast cancer in postmenopausal women at high risk of developing the disease.
FAQs
Q: What is Altraz Tablet used for?
A: Altraz Tablet is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is used as an adjuvant treatment after surgery, as well as for advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
Q: How does Altraz Tablet work?
A: Altraz contains Anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor that works by blocking the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting androgens into oestrogen. By reducing oestrogen levels in the body, it helps slow or stop the growth of oestrogen-dependent breast cancer cells.
Q: How should I take Altraz Tablet?
A: Take Altraz Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water at the same time each day for best results.
Q: How long will I need to take Altraz Tablet?
A: Altraz is typically taken for up to 5 years as part of adjuvant breast cancer treatment. Your doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on your individual condition and response to therapy.
Q: What are the common side effects of Altraz Tablet?
A: Common side effects include hot flushes, joint pain or stiffness, fatigue, nausea, bone thinning (osteoporosis), and headache. Inform your doctor if any side effects become bothersome or persistent.
Q: Can Altraz Tablet affect bone health?
A: Yes. Anastrozole reduces oestrogen levels which can lead to decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Your doctor may recommend regular bone density monitoring and calcium or vitamin D supplements during treatment.
Q: Can Altraz Tablet be used in premenopausal women?
A: No. Altraz Tablet is indicated only for postmenopausal women. It is not recommended for use in premenopausal women as it is not effective in this group and may cause hormonal imbalances.
Q: Can Altraz Tablet be used during pregnancy?
A: No. Altraz Tablet must not be used during pregnancy as it may cause serious harm to the unborn baby. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and consult their doctor immediately if pregnancy is suspected.
Q: Can I take Altraz Tablet with other medicines?
A: Inform your doctor of all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Altraz. Certain medicines such as tamoxifen and oestrogen-containing products may interact with Anastrozole and reduce its effectiveness.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Altraz Tablet?
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Interactions
| Interacting medicine or substance | Possible interaction effect |
|---|---|
| Estrogen-containing medicines | May reduce effectiveness of Anastrozole |
| Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) | May interfere with cancer treatment effect |
| Tamoxifen | May reduce effectiveness when used together |
| Other anticancer therapies | May increase risk of side effects |
| Bone-strengthening medicines | May require monitoring of bone health balance |
| Cholesterol-lowering drugs | May need monitoring for lipid changes |
| Liver affecting medicines | May increase risk of liver-related side effects |
| Alcohol | May worsen dizziness or liver strain |
| Herbal supplements | May reduce effectiveness or increase side effects risk |
Important Interaction Advice
- Inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements you use
- Avoid estrogen-containing products during treatment
- Do not combine with hormone therapies without medical supervision
- Monitor bone health and cholesterol regularly
- Report unusual symptoms such as bone pain or severe fatigue promptly
- Follow oncology guidance strictly during combination therapy management
| Manufacturer | : | Alkem Laboratories Ltd |
| Trade Name | : | Arimidex |
| Generic Search | : | Anastrozole |
| Strength | : | 1mg |
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