Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Anastrozole as follows:
- While taking anastrozole for control of tumor growth, notify your physician and other health care personnel immediately regarding any increase in the size of the tumor, growth of new masses in the breast tissue, exacerbation of pain, worsening lymphedema, and swelling and seek their opinion on a possible change in the dose or plan of care. Also, notify your doctor of any continuing unpleasant side-effects with anastrozole, so that, your dosage on the medication could be revised.
- Anastrozole use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in birth defects. So, anastrozole use should be avoided during pregnancy and in women planning to get pregnant. Women in active reproductive age group, taking anastrozole on a regular basis must employ effective contraceptive measures in order to avoid getting pregnant.
- Demineralization of bone, secondary to anastrozole intake, can result in extreme elevation of blood calcium levels in the body. This can result in signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia, such as, exacerbation of constipation and reduced appetite. Individuals can also present with formation of calcium stones leading to episodes of severe flank or abdominal pain and difficulty passing urine. Notify your physician regarding your history of hypercalcemia and/or renal calcium stones, if any, and discuss your safety with anastrozole intake.
