Anastrozol is an aromatase inhibitor, which is mainly used for adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal breast cancer and treatment of advanced breast cancer. Its therapeutic effect is significant, which can effectively reduce estrogen levels and inhibit tumor growth. Discontinuation of medication should be gradually carried out according to the condition and doctor's guidance, and attention should be paid to monitoring indicators such as bone density and blood lipids.

1. Therapeutic effect

(1) Adjuvant treatment of breast cancer

Anatrozole can significantly reduce the recurrence risk of postmenopausal hormone receptor positive breast cancer patients, and the 5-year disease-free survival rate is better than tamoxifen. Especially for high-risk patients, the effect is more significant.

(2) Treatment of advanced breast cancer

For patients with hormone receptor positive advanced breast cancer, anastrozole can effectively control tumor progression, with a median progression free survival period of 10-14 months. The objective relief rate is about 30-40%.

(3) Preventive effect

For high-risk postmenopausal women, anastrozole can reduce the incidence rate of breast cancer by more than 50%, but it is necessary to balance the risk of side effects such as osteoporosis.

2. Precautions for discontinuation of medication

(1) Timing of discontinuation of medication

Adjuvant therapy usually lasts for 5 years, and for high-risk patients, it can be extended to 7-10 years. Late stage patients need to continue medication until disease progression or intolerable toxicity occurs.

(2) Discontinuation method

No need to gradually reduce dosage, the medication can be stopped directly. But it is necessary to continue monitoring for at least 2 years, as there is still a risk of delayed effects and recurrence after discontinuing the medication.

(3) Monitoring after discontinuation of medication

Regular re examination of bone density (every 1-2 years), blood lipids, and liver function is required. Pay attention to long-term side effects such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

(4) Special case handling

If severe bone and joint symptoms or cardiovascular events occur, early discontinuation of medication and switching treatment plans may be considered. Individualized assessment of benefit risk ratio is required.