Arimidex lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, which may slow the growth of certain types of breast tumors that need estrogen to grow in the body.
Arimidex is used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is often given to women whose cancer has progressed even after taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Soltamox).
The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.
FDA pregnancy category D. Arimidex can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings in more detail
You may need to take a pregnancy test before using Arimidex, to make sure you are not pregnant. You also should not use this medication if you are breast-feeding a baby, or if you are allergic to anastrozole.
Before using Arimidex, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, circulation problems, a history of stroke of blood clot, severe liver disease, or if you have not yet completed menopause.
You may need to keep taking Arimidex for up to 5 years. Follow your doctor`s instructions.
Arimidex may not work as well if you take it together with tamoxifen or an estrogen medication. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor if you also take tamoxifen or estrogen
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction ro Arimidex: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
swollen glands;
a bone fracture; or
swelling in your hands or feet;
Less serious Arimidex side effects may include:
hot flashes;
joint pain or stiffness;
weakness;
sore throat;
depression, mood changes;
nausea; or
back pain, bone pain.
Take Arimidex exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Arimidex is usually taken once per day. You may need to keep taking this medication for up to 5 years. Follow your doctor`s instructions.
