Arimidex Anastrozole 1mg

Q1: What is Arimidex (Anastrozole) used for?

Arimidex is AstraZeneca's original brand of anastrozole, used to treat hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer in postmenopausal women — as first-line treatment for advanced disease and as adjuvant therapy to prevent recurrence after surgery.

Q2: How does Arimidex work against breast cancer?

Arimidex selectively inhibits the aromatase enzyme, which converts androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues. By reducing circulating estrogen by ~85%, it deprives HR+ tumor cells of the estrogen they depend on for growth.

Q3: What type of breast cancer does Arimidex treat?

Arimidex treats hormone receptor-positive (ER+ and/or PR+) breast cancer in postmenopausal women — including early-stage adjuvant therapy, extended adjuvant therapy after 2–3 years of tamoxifen, and first-line advanced/metastatic disease.

Q4: How is Arimidex administered?

One 1mg tablet is taken orally once daily, with or without food, at a consistent time each day. Continuous uninterrupted therapy is important for effectiveness.

Q5: How long is Arimidex treatment?

Adjuvant Arimidex therapy typically continues for 5 years post-surgery, sometimes extended to 10 years based on individual cancer characteristics and oncologist recommendation.

Q6: What are the most common side effects of Arimidex?

Common side effects include hot flashes, joint and muscle pain (arthralgia/myalgia), fatigue, nausea, bone pain, headache, and mild peripheral edema. Joint symptoms affect a significant proportion of users.

Q7: What serious side effects require emergency care?

Seek immediate care for bone fractures, severe cardiovascular events (chest pain, stroke symptoms), severe allergic skin reactions, or jaundice/dark urine indicating liver problems.

Q8: What drugs interact with Arimidex?

Estrogen-containing products (HRT, contraceptive pills) are contraindicated as they neutralise Arimidex's action. Tamoxifen co-administration reduces efficacy of both drugs. Warfarin users need regular INR monitoring.

Q9: Is Arimidex safe during pregnancy?

No. Arimidex is contraindicated in pregnancy and is not indicated for premenopausal women unless combined with confirmed ovarian suppression. Effective contraception must be used if there is any pregnancy risk.

Q10: What monitoring tests are needed during Arimidex treatment?

Bone mineral density (DXA scan) at baseline and every 1–2 years, regular lipid profile assessment, and cardiovascular risk factor monitoring are recommended. Liver function tests if hepatic issues arise.

Q11: How should Arimidex be stored?

Store at room temperature 20°C–25°C, away from moisture and direct sunlight, in the original blister packaging. Keep out of reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.

Q12: Is Arimidex available without a prescription?

No. Arimidex is a prescription-only oncology medication that requires specialist prescription and ongoing oncologist monitoring throughout the treatment period.