Anastrozole is a highly potent anti-estrogen classified within the Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) category. Arimidex has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in treating breast cancer, surpassing traditional options like Nolvadex (Tamoxifen Citrate) and is a popular choice among anabolic steroid users seeking to mitigate estrogen-related issues. Many steroid users depend on Arimidex for estrogen control during their cycles.
Anastrozole’s effects:
As an anti-estrogen, Arimidex is crucial for breast cancer patients since many variants of the disease rely on estrogen for growth. Simplistically put, using Arimidex can help starve the cancer. In recent years, it has become the preferred anti-estrogen for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer treatment, especially 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 trigger estrogen-related side effects because of their interaction with the aromatase enzyme, which converts testosterone into estrogen. This increase in estrogen may result in gynecomastia and excessive water retention, which can further lead to elevated blood pressure. However, not all steroids aromatize, and thus not all lead to estrogenic complications.
Incorporating Arimidex into a steroid cycle that includes aromatizing steroids helps ward off gynecomastia and water retention, thus providing protection against high blood pressure. Undoubtedly, AIs like Arimidex are the most effective anti-estrogens for addressing estrogen-related side effects. While SERM options like Nolvadex can also be beneficial, they are generally less effective and should be prioritized when appropriate. It’s important to note that Arimidex can adversely impact cholesterol levels, as will be discussed in the side effects section, though these cholesterol issues can often be managed.
As a testosterone-enhancing agent, Arimidex may be attractive for low testosterone treatment and Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) for anabolic users. However, when treating low testosterone, it is typically not sufficient on its own. It can still be advantageous when combined with external testosterone therapy to mitigate estrogenic side effects. Regarding PCT, while some users may integrate it with some success, it is generally discouraged. The primary goal of a PCT is to stimulate natural testosterone production to help preserve lean muscle, control body fat, and promote overall health. However, normalization—important for proper bodily function, immune system operation, and cardiovascular health—cannot be achieved if Arimidex is used post-cycle due to its significant reduction of estrogen levels. Therefore, anabolic users should reserve AIs for use during cycles, relying instead on SERMs for PCT.
Possible side effects:Headaches, nausea, hot flashes, elevated blood pressure, joint discomfort, depression, bone mineral density reduction, adverse cholesterol effects.Administration guidelines:
When treating breast cancer, Arimidex is typically prescribed at a dosage of 1mg daily until the cancer is managed. Treatment may continue for a period afterward and is often transitioned to Nolvadex for preventative care once remission is achieved.
For anabolic steroid users, dosages of Arimidex can vary, with a common range being 0.5-1mg every other day. Very few individuals need more than 1mg every other day, and many will find that half that dose is sufficient. In therapeutic contexts such as low testosterone treatment, an even lower dosage may be adequate. However, competitive bodybuilders sometimes utilize a higher dosage of a full 1mg daily for the final 10-14 days leading up to a competition, as this can significantly assist in achieving a harder appearance, albeit at the expense of increased fatigue. Most competitors experience low energy during this stage of their diet anyway.
