Last reviewed · How we verify

ANASTROZOLE

FDA-approved approved Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026 Quality 45/100

ANASTROZOLE is a Aromatase Inhibitor [EPC] drug. It is currently FDA-approved (first approved 1995).

Anastrozole inhibits the aromatase enzyme, reducing estrogen levels which can stimulate breast cancer growth.

Anastrozole, also known as Arimidex, is a small molecule inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 19A1 enzyme, specifically targeting aromatase. It has been studied in clinical trials for various conditions, including breast cancer, hypogonadism, diabetes, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis.

At a glance

Generic nameANASTROZOLE
Drug classAromatase Inhibitor [EPC]
Targetaromatase
ModalitySmall molecule
PhaseFDA-approved
First approval1995

Mechanism of action

In postmenopausal women, estrogens are primarily produced by the aromatase enzyme converting adrenal androgens to estrone and estradiol. Anastrozole, a selective non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor, reduces estrogen levels by blocking this conversion, thereby suppressing the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancers.

Approved indications

No approved indications tracked.

Common side effects

Drug interactions

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
FDA labelMechanism, indications, dosing, boxed warnings, drug interactions
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

Frequently asked questions about ANASTROZOLE

What is ANASTROZOLE?

ANASTROZOLE is a Aromatase Inhibitor [EPC] drug.

How does ANASTROZOLE work?

Anastrozole inhibits the aromatase enzyme, reducing estrogen levels which can stimulate breast cancer growth.

What drug class is ANASTROZOLE in?

ANASTROZOLE belongs to the Aromatase Inhibitor [EPC] class. See all Aromatase Inhibitor [EPC] drugs at /class/aromatase-inhibitor-epc.

When was ANASTROZOLE approved?

ANASTROZOLE was first approved on 1995.

What development phase is ANASTROZOLE in?

ANASTROZOLE is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of ANASTROZOLE?

Common side effects of ANASTROZOLE include Asthenia, Pain, Back pain, Headache, Abdominal pain, Infection.

What does ANASTROZOLE target?

ANASTROZOLE targets aromatase and is a Aromatase Inhibitor [EPC].

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing