Altraz: Advanced Aromatase Inhibition for Hormone-Sensitive Breast Cancer
Altraz
| Product dosage: 1mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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| 90 | 5.73 $
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Synonyms | |||
Altraz (anastrozole) is a potent, non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor indicated for the adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer. It functions by significantly reducing estrogen production, a key driver of tumor growth in this patient population. As a well-established first-line option in endocrine therapy, Altraz offers a targeted mechanism of action with a demonstrated efficacy and safety profile, making it a cornerstone in the management of hormone-dependent malignancies. Its oral administration and once-daily dosing support long-term treatment adherence and patient quality of life.
Features
- Contains 1 mg of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, anastrozole, per tablet
- Presented in blister packs of 28 tablets, facilitating a monthly supply
- Formulated as film-coated tablets for ease of swallowing and palatability
- Manufactured under strict Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards
- Exhibits high selectivity for the aromatase enzyme with minimal effect on adrenal corticosteroid or aldosterone synthesis
- Bioavailability is not affected by food intake, allowing flexible administration
Benefits
- Significantly reduces the risk of disease recurrence in postmenopausal women with early, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer
- Lowers systemic estrogen levels by inhibiting the conversion of androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues
- Improves long-term survival outcomes when used as part of adjuvant endocrine therapy
- Generally well-tolerated profile compared to older hormonal therapies like tamoxifen, with a different side effect spectrum
- Oral once-daily regimen supports treatment compliance and minimizes disruption to daily life
- Does not require concomitant corticosteroid replacement, simplifying the treatment protocol
Common use
Altraz is primarily prescribed for the adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer. It is also used for the first-line treatment of advanced or metastatic hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. In some clinical contexts, it may be utilized as extended adjuvant therapy following initial tamoxifen treatment. Its use is strictly limited to postmenopausal patients due to its mechanism of action and potential effects on hormone levels.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Altraz is one 1 mg tablet taken orally once daily. It can be administered with or without food, as bioavailability is not significantly affected. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water; they should not be crushed or chewed. Treatment is typically continued for 5 years, though duration may be adjusted based on individual patient response, tolerability, and evolving clinical guidelines. For patients with advanced disease, treatment continues until tumor progression is observed.
Precautions
Patients should be monitored for bone mineral density loss, as estrogen suppression can accelerate osteoporosis; baseline and periodic DEXA scans are recommended. Regular assessment of lipid profiles is advised due to potential alterations in cholesterol levels. Caution is warranted in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment, as anastrozole is extensively metabolized in the liver. Patients should be advised to report any persistent musculoskeletal pain, as arthralgia is a commonly reported adverse effect. Use with caution in patients with a history of ischemic cardiovascular disease.
Contraindications
Altraz is contraindicated in premenopausal women, as it is ineffective in the presence of functioning ovaries and may interfere with ovarian function. It should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to anastrozole or any excipients in the formulation. Contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C). Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential fetal harm and lack of safety data. Should not be co-administered with estrogen-containing therapies, as these may counteract its therapeutic effect.
Possible side effect
Common side effects (≥10% incidence) include hot flashes, asthenia, arthralgia, arthritis, pain, pharyngitis, nausea, headache, back pain, and increased cough. Less frequently (1-10%), patients may experience depression, insomnia, rash, hypertension, peripheral edema, vomiting, anorexia, vaginal dryness, vaginal hemorrhage, and weight gain. Rare but serious adverse reactions (<1%) include ischemic cardiovascular events, fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, leukopenia, and elevated liver enzymes. Most side effects are mild to moderate in severity and often diminish with continued therapy.
Drug interaction
No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions have been observed with co-administered tamoxifen, which reduces anastrozole plasma concentrations by 27%. Caution is advised with drugs that induce CYP3A4 (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin), as they may decrease anastrozole concentrations. Estrogen-containing therapies may diminish the pharmacological effect of Altraz and should be avoided. Although not extensively studied, interactions with other medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 isoenzymes are theoretically possible. Always review the patient’s full medication list for potential interactions.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If the missed dose is not remembered until the following day, the patient should skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed tablet. Patients should be educated on the importance of adherence to the prescribed dosing regimen to maintain stable estrogen suppression and maximize therapeutic efficacy.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote for anastrozole overdose. Single doses up to 60 mg have been administered without severe adverse effects. In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion was recent. Monitor vital signs and provide appropriate supportive care based on clinical presentation. Due to the drug’s long half-life (approximately 50 hours), monitoring should continue for several days. Dialysis is unlikely to be beneficial due to high protein binding.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in the original packaging to protect from light and moisture. Keep the blister strips sealed until immediately before use. Do not store in bathrooms or other areas with high humidity. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly dispose of any unused or expired medication according to local regulations.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Altraz is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Treatment decisions should be based on individual patient characteristics, comprehensive clinical assessment, and current therapeutic guidelines. Patients should not initiate or discontinue therapy without consulting their physician. The prescribing information provided here may not include all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions.
Reviews
Clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance demonstrate that Altraz is generally well-regarded by oncologists for its efficacy in reducing breast cancer recurrence. Many clinicians appreciate its once-daily dosing and favorable side effect profile compared to older endocrine therapies. Patient reviews often mention satisfactory management of hormone-sensitive disease, though some report challenges with musculoskeletal symptoms and vasomotor effects. Overall, it maintains a strong position in treatment guidelines as a standard of care for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive early breast cancer.