- Active substance: Anastrozole
- Manufacturer: Cipla
- Unit: 10tabs (1.00mg/tab) ArmotrazActive substance: AnastrozoleOther names: Arimidex, Anastrozol, Anastrox, Anazole, Aremed.Active half-life 2 days
Anastrozole is a highly potent anti-estrogen that belongs to the Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) category. Arimidex has shown to be very effective in the treatment of breast cancer, outperforming the conventional Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate), and is a preferred choice among many users of anabolic steroids. Numerous anabolic steroid users depend on Arimidex for estrogenic protection during their cycles.
Effects of AnastrozoleAs an anti-estrogen, Arimidex proves invaluable to breast cancer patients, as many types of breast cancer thrive on estrogen. While this may be a simplification, administering Arimidex can effectively deprive the cancer of this hormone. In recent years, it has emerged as the primary anti-estrogen for treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly among post-menopausal women.
For anabolic steroid users, the protective effects of Arimidex against estrogen-related side effects are highly valued. Many anabolic steroids can cause estrogenic side effects due to testosterone's interaction with the aromatase enzyme. As aromatization happens, estrogen levels increase, potentially leading to issues like gynecomastia and significant water retention. In severe cases, excess water retention can cause elevated blood pressure. Not all anabolic steroids aromatize, and thus, not all result in estrogen-related effects.
Incorporating Arimidex into a steroid cycle that includes aromatizing steroids helps shield users from gynecomastia and water retention, as well as protect against high blood pressure. Clearly, AIs like Arimidex are the most effective anti-estrogens for addressing estrogen-related side effects. While SERMs like Nolvadex can also be effective and should be the first choice where feasible, Arimidex can adversely impact cholesterol levels, as discussed in the side effects section. Nonetheless, these cholesterol issues can often be managed.
As a compound that stimulates testosterone production, Arimidex may also be attractive for low testosterone treatment plans and Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) for anabolic steroid users. In cases of low testosterone treatment, it is usually insufficient on its own but can serve as a beneficial adjunct to exogenous testosterone therapy, helping to mitigate estrogenic side effects. Some may attempt to use it for PCT with positive results, but it’s generally not advisable. The main objective of a PCT plan is to stimulate the body's natural testosterone production to preserve lean muscle, control body fat, and enhance overall health. However, achieving hormone normalization is not feasible with Arimidex post-cycle due to its profound estrogen-lowering effect. While elevated estrogen levels can pose problems, some estrogen is vital for proper bodily functions, particularly related to the immune system and cardiovascular health. Thus, anabolic steroid users should reserve AIs for use during cycles and rely on SERMs for PCT.
Side effects:Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, high blood pressure, joint pain, depression, decreased bone mineral content, negatively impacts cholesterol levels,How to use:In the treatment of breast cancer, Arimidex is typically prescribed at a dosage of 1mg per day until the cancer diminishes. This use may continue for some time, often transitioning to Nolvadex for preventive purposes once remission is achieved.
For anabolic steroid users, doses of Arimidex can vary, with 0.5-1mg every other day being the most prevalent. Few will require more than 1mg every other day, and many could effectively manage with half that amount. In therapeutic contexts such as low testosterone treatment, even lower doses may suffice. However, an exception can be made for competitive bodybuilders, who may benefit from taking a full 1mg daily in the last 10-14 days leading up to competition. This can significantly aid in achieving a harder physique but can be quite taxing, especially given the low energy levels many will have at that stage of their competition diet.