Arimidex (anastrozole)

Anastrozole is an anti estrogenic drug developed for the treatment of advanced breast cancer in women. Specifically, this agent is the first in a newer class of third generation selective oral aromatase inhibitors. It acts by blocking the enzyme aromatase, subsequently blocking the production of estrogen in the body. Since many forms of breast cancer cells are stimulated by estrogen, reducing levels of this hormone in the body may retard the progression of the disease. This is also the fundamental use of tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex), except nolvadex blocks the action of estrogen at the receptor, not its actual endogenous production. The effects of anastrozole can be very substantial, with a daily dosage of 1mg capable of production estrogen suppression greater than 80% in treated patients. With the powerful effect this drug has on hormone levels, it is usually only prescribed to post menopausal women. Anastrozole was developed by Zeneca Pharmaceuticals, and approved for use in the United States at the end of 1995. The drug was developed as a new adjunct treatment for operable breast cancer in postmenopausal female patients, an area of medicine that had a long history of nolvadex use. Substantial date was needed to shit prescribing trends away from such an established medication treatment.

Most commonly called Arimidex, this substance is a true aromatase inhibitor which works by blocking the aromatase enzyme in the body, thus limiting the amount of estrogen buildup that takes place. This compound has obvious benefits to bodybuilders who use aromatizing steroids such as testosterone. These individuals might face estrogen related side effects such as water bloat and "gyno", but by taking Arimidex while on cycle, the chance of any of these sides are greatly reduced. In studies that have been done, Arimidex has been shown to reduce estrogen in the body by roughly 50%. This is a good balance for bodybuilders , because some estrogen is needed in order for the full anabolic benefits of the steroids being taken to be achieved. These results are typically the same with a dosage of .5 mg a day as they are with a dosage of 1 mg a day, meaning that in most cases, a half tablet a day will be sufficient for estrogen control throughout cycle. Typically, bodybuilders using Arimidex will begin taking it the day they start their cycle, and will run it throughout the duration of steroid administration. It is also important to point out Arimidex’s ability to increase testosterone in the body. Some studies have shown that natural testosterone levels have increases as much as 60% after the use of this substance for 7 days. Because of this, bodybuilders find this drug extremely effective during PCT where as they are trying to elevate natural levels as much as possible in order to avoid a post cycle "crash".

When used to mitigate the estrogenic side effects of anabolic/androgenic steroid use, male athletes and bodybuilders will commonly take a dose of .5mg to 1mg of anastrozole per day. In some instances a half of a tablet taken every other day is sufficient to mitigate the buildup of estrogen. When used with readily aromatizing androgens such as methandrostenolone or testosterone, gynecomastia and water retention are often effectively blocked. Additionally, the use of anastrozole may decrease fat mass, which can also be tied to estrogen levels. The result can be a harder and much more defined look to the muscles and physique, which makes this agent of interest for dieting and cutting purposes as well.