AnastrozoleActive ingredient: AnastrozoleAlternative names: Arimidex, Anastrozol, Anastrox, Anazole, Aremed.Half-life:2 days
Anastrozole is a potent anti-estrogen that falls under the category of Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs). It has shown considerable effectiveness in treating breast cancer, often surpassing traditional treatments like Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate), and is favored by many users of anabolic steroids for its protective qualities against estrogen-related side effects.
Effects of Anastrozole:
Anastrozole is crucial for breast cancer patients because many forms of the disease rely on estrogen to grow. By administering Anastrozole, the cancer cells are deprived of this hormone. It has become a primary choice in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly in post-menopausal women.
For those who use anabolic steroids, Anastrozole is esteemed for its capacity to safeguard against estrogenic side effects. Numerous anabolic steroids can lead to estrogenic issues due to their interaction with the aromatase enzyme, resulting in elevated estrogen levels, which may cause gynecomastia and increased water retention. Severe water retention can also result in elevated blood pressure. It's worth noting that not all anabolic steroids aromatize, and therefore, not all can cause estrogenic side effects.
Incorporating Anastrozole into a cycle that includes aromatizing steroids allows users to guard against gynecomastia and excessive water retention, thereby also mitigating the risk of high blood pressure. Undoubtedly, agents like Anastrozole are among the most effective choices for addressing estrogen-related side effects. While Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) like Nolvadex can also be beneficial, they're generally not as effective and should be the initial option when feasible. Anastrozole may negatively impact cholesterol levels, which will be discussed in the side effects section, although these cholesterol issues can often be managed.
As a testosterone-stimulating agent, Anastrozole is appealing for low testosterone treatment and for use during Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) for anabolic steroid users. While it may not be sufficient as a standalone treatment, it can still provide advantages when paired with exogenous testosterone therapy to prevent estrogenic side effects. Some users may try it during PCT with positive results, but it is usually not recommended. The goal of a PCT plan is to encourage natural testosterone production to preserve lean muscle, control body fat, and enhance overall health. However, true normalization cannot be achieved using Anastrozole during PCT due to its significant reduction of estrogen levels. Although excessive estrogen can be problematic, a certain amount is essential for proper body function, particularly regarding immune and cardiovascular health. Therefore, anabolic steroid users should reserve AIs for on-cycle use and utilize SERMs during PCT.
Side effects:Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, high blood pressure, joint discomfort, mood changes, reduction in bone mineral density, negative cholesterol impact,Usage guidelines:
In the management of breast cancer, Anastrozole is typically prescribed at a dose of 1mg per day until the cancer is controlled. Treatment may continue for a period and might transition to Nolvadex as a preventative measure once remission is achieved.
For users of anabolic steroids, the usual dosage of Anastrozole ranges from 0.5 to 1mg every other day. Rarely will anyone require more than 1mg every other day, and many users find that 0.5mg suffices. In therapeutic scenarios, such as low testosterone treatment, even lesser doses may be necessary. However, competitive bodybuilders might opt for a full 1mg daily during the final 10-14 days leading up to a competition to aid in achieving muscle definition, although this can be quite taxing, especially as they are already on a restrictive diet with low energy levels.