The Effect of Anastrozole on the Lipid Profile: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the impact of anastrozole administration on the traditional components of the lipid profile (ie, total cholesterol [TC], LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides [TGs]) by means of a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Methods: We searched the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases for relevant randomized controlled trials published in the English language until January 18, 2022. The weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CIs were calculated using a random-effects model (DerSimonian and Laird methods). Findings: Anastrozole administration significantly lowered TC concentrations when the treatment duration was ≤3 months (WMD = −2.73 mg/dL; 95% CI, −5.09 to −0.38 mg/dL; P = 0.02) and when the baseline TC concentration was ≥200 mg/dL (WMD = −3.64 mg/dL; 95% CI, −6.30 to −0.98 mg/dL; P = 0.007). HDL-C levels decreased after anastrozole administration when the treatment duration was >3 months (WMD = −1.67 mg/dL; 95% CI, −3.24 to −0.10 mg/dL; P = 0.03). Anastrozole administration had no impact on TG or LDL-C values. Implications: Anastrozole administration in humans can decrease TC and HDL-C levels but has no effect on LDL-C or TG concentrations.