Anastrozole is a highly effective anti-estrogen that belongs to the Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) class. Arimidex has shown remarkable efficacy in treating breast cancer, outperforming traditional treatments such as Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate), and is a preferred choice among many anabolic steroid users. Numerous users turn to Arimidex for estrogenic protection during their cycles.
Effects of Anastrozole
As an anti-estrogen, Arimidex is crucial for breast cancer patients since many breast cancer types thrive on estrogen. Although it is a simplification, administering Arimidex can effectively deprive the cancer of estrogen. Recently, Arimidex has become the foremost anti-estrogen for treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly in post-menopausal women.
For those using anabolic steroids, the protective effects of Arimidex against estrogenic side effects are highly valued. Many anabolic steroids can cause estrogenic side effects due to their interaction with the aromatase enzyme. This interaction leads to increased estrogen levels, resulting in issues such as gynecomastia and water retention. Severe water retention can also raise blood pressure. However, not all anabolic steroids cause aromatization or result in estrogenic effects.
Using Arimidex during a steroid cycle that includes aromatizing steroids can safeguard against gynecomastia and water retention, while also preventing high blood pressure. Clearly, AIs like Arimidex are the most effective means of addressing estrogen-related side effects. While SERMs like Nolvadex can also help, they are not as potent and should be prioritized when feasible. It's important to note that Arimidex may adversely impact cholesterol levels, although these issues can be managed.
As a compound that stimulates testosterone, Arimidex can be useful in low testosterone treatment protocols as well as in Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) for anabolic steroid users. In cases of low testosterone, it may not suffice alone, but it can be beneficial when paired with exogenous testosterone to mitigate estrogenic side effects. However, using Arimidex in PCT is generally discouraged, as its primary goal is to promote natural testosterone production to preserve lean muscle, control body fat, and enhance overall health. The aim is normalization, which is hindered by the significant reduction of estrogen that Arimidex causes. While elevated estrogen levels can be problematic, a certain amount is essential for proper bodily function, especially for immune system and cardiovascular health. For anabolic steroid users, it’s advisable to reserve AIs for during cycles and utilize SERMs for PCT.
Side effects:Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, elevated blood pressure, joint discomfort, depression, reduction in bone mineral density, negative impact on cholesterol levels,Dosage:
For breast cancer treatment, Arimidex is typically prescribed at a dosage of 1mg per day until the cancer is in remission. Afterward, treatment may continue, often transitioning to Nolvadex as a preventative step.
For anabolic steroid users, Arimidex dosages vary, with 0.5-1mg every other day being common. Very few will require more than 1mg every other day, and many will find that 0.5mg is adequate. In therapeutic scenarios, such as treating low testosterone, even lower doses may suffice. However, competitive bodybuilders might increase their dosage to a full 1mg daily in the last 10-14 days before a competition to aid in muscle hardening, although this may be exhausting given their already limited energy levels during that phase of their diet.