Arimidex 1 mg Ingredients and Usage

The active ingredient is Anastrozole, a non-steroidal drug. The 1 mg tablet is taken orally once daily.

Arimidex is clinically indicated for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women in the following settings:

• Adjuvant Treatment: As initial therapy for early breast cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence following surgery.
• Extended Adjuvant Treatment: For patients who have completed 5 years of Tamoxifen therapy.
• First-Line Treatment: For locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
• Second-Line Treatment: For advanced breast cancer that has progressed despite treatment with Tamoxifen.

How Does Arimidex Work?

Arimidex (Anastrozole) works by interfering with the body’s estrogen production, which is the primary fuel for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. The mechanism is highly targeted:

1. Targeting Aromatase: The drug selectively inhibits the enzyme Aromatase. In postmenopausal women, this enzyme is the main source of estrogen production, primarily converting androgens (hormones produced by the adrenal glands) into estrogens (Estrone and Estradiol) in fat, muscle, and breast tissue.
2. Estrogen Depletion: By powerfully blocking Aromatase, Anastrozole virtually eliminates circulating estrogen levels (by over 95%).
3. Tumor Suppression: This profound reduction in estrogen “starves” the estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) cancer cells, preventing their proliferation and promoting tumor regression, making it a highly effective form of endocrine therapy.

Arimidex 1 mg Side Effects and Warnings

Because Arimidex works by reducing estrogen, many of its side effects are related to the symptoms of estrogen deficiency, similar to those experienced during menopause. Common side effects include:

• Hot Flashes (most common)
• Joint Pain (Arthralgia) and Stiffness
• Headache
• Nausea, Vomiting
• Mood changes

Serious Warnings and Precautions:

1. Osteoporosis and Fractures: The reduction in estrogen accelerates bone mineral loss, significantly increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis and bone fractures (especially spinal, hip, and wrist fractures). Monitoring of bone density (e.g., DEXA scans) is typically required.
2. Cardiovascular Risk: Arimidex may increase the risk of ischemic cardiac events (e.g., heart attack) in some patients compared to tamoxifen, particularly those with pre-existing heart disease.
3. Hypercholesterolemia: The drug can increase serum total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, requiring lipid profile monitoring.
4. Contraindication: Arimidex is contraindicated in premenopausal women (unless ovarian suppression is also administered) and in patients with known severe hypersensitivity to Anastrozole.

Arimidex 1 mg Storage Conditions

Arimidex Tablets should be stored under standard conditions to maintain stability:

• Store the tablets at controlled room temperature, typically between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).
• Keep the tablets in the original blister pack or container to protect them from moisture.
• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Take the medicine at the same time each day, with or without food.