Side Effects Anastrazole

Hi Jane:

Thanks for getting in touch, and welcome to our online community.  It is understandable that you have questions about whether the Anastrozole could be affecting your blood counts.

Anastrozole is a hormonal therapy drug used to treat oestrogen receptor-positive (ER positive) breast cancer.  The most common side effects, as well as some of the less common ones, can be found here.

I see you have been on Anastrozole for 28 months, and you wrote that your recent blood tests have shown some anomalies.  It is unclear how often you have blood tests and whether this is the first one with results that are either ‘high’ or ‘low’.

It is also unclear whether you are taking any other medication in addition to the Anastrozole.  It is important to tell your consultant whether you are taking other medicines that could potentially interact with the Anastrozole.  This includes vitamins, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter remedies.

Unfortunately, as we have no access to NHS systems or medical records, it is important to discuss these results with your consultant, CNS, or GP, as they can look at trends of any of your previous blood tests while you’ve been on the treatment and advise accordingly.

In addition, if you are feeling unwell, it is important to inform your healthcare team.

I’ve included a link to our Breast cancer forum that you may find helpful for additional support. 

I hope this helps.  However, we often find that we can help more by exploring these questions over the phone.  You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts.  Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am to 8pm) or send us an email.

Best wishes,

Lisa R, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

Ref/AR/LR