Anastrozole is a potent anti-estrogen belonging to the Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) class. It has demonstrated effectiveness in treating breast cancer, proving to be more effective than the traditional treatment with Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate), which makes it popular among users of anabolic steroids who seek estrogenic protection during cycles.
Effects of Anastrozole
As an anti-estrogen, Arimidex is critical for breast cancer patients since various types of breast cancer thrive on estrogen. Simplistically, administering Arimidex helps to deprive the cancer of this hormone. Recently, Arimidex has emerged as the preferred anti-estrogen for treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly in post-menopausal women.
For users of anabolic steroids, Arimidex is valued for its efficacy in protecting against side effects linked to estrogen. Many anabolic steroids can lead to estrogenic side effects due to testosterone’s interaction with the aromatase enzyme, resulting in increased estrogen levels that may cause issues such as gynecomastia and excessive water retention. Severe water retention can also lead to elevated blood pressure. Not all anabolic steroids aromatize, meaning not all will bring about estrogen-related side effects.
Incorporating Arimidex into a cycle containing aromatizing steroids helps individuals avoid gynecomastia and water retention, as well as guard against high blood pressure. Indeed, AIs like Arimidex are the most effective options for counteracting estrogen-related side effects. Although SERMs like Nolvadex can be beneficial, they are generally less effective and should be the preferred choice whenever feasible. However, it's worth noting that Arimidex can adversely affect cholesterol, an issue we'll explore in the side effects section. Nevertheless, these cholesterol-related side effects can often be mitigated.
As a testosterone-boosting compound, Arimidex may be an attractive option for those undergoing low testosterone treatment and for anabolic steroid users during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT). While it may not be sufficient for low testosterone therapy, it can still play a role in conjunction with testosterone therapy to address estrogenic side effects. Regarding PCT, although some individuals may find benefit from using it, it is generally not recommended. The primary goal of a PCT plan is to stimulate natural testosterone production to preserve lean muscle mass, manage body fat, and enhance overall health. However, the overarching aim is to achieve hormonal balance, which cannot be attained if Arimidex is used post-cycle due to its significant reduction of estrogen levels. Although elevated estrogen levels can pose issues, a certain amount of estrogen is essential for proper bodily functions, especially concerning immune and cardiovascular health. Thus, for users of anabolic steroids, it’s advisable to reserve AIs for use during cycles and utilize SERMs for PCT instead.
Side Effects:Common side effects include headaches, nausea, hot flashes, high blood pressure, joint pain, and depression, along with decreased bone mineral density and negative impacts on cholesterol levels.How to Use:
For breast cancer treatment, Arimidex is typically prescribed at a dose of 1mg daily until the cancer is under control. This treatment may continue for a while and is often transitioned to Nolvadex as a preventative measure once the cancer is in remission.
For anabolic steroid users, dosages of Arimidex can vary, with 0.5-1mg every other day being common. Most users will not need more than 1mg every other day, and many will find that 0.5mg is sufficient. In therapeutic scenarios like low testosterone treatment, even lower doses may be adequate. However, competitive bodybuilders might require a full 1mg daily during the last 10-14 days leading up to a competition to enhance muscle hardness, albeit this can be taxing, especially as most are already low on energy during that phase of their diet.