Arimidex
Hello everyone,
I haven't posted before but find this a wonderful site. I had invasice duct carcinoma diagnosed in August this year, but fortunately had a lumpectomy and the cancer hadn't spread t...
Forum Discussion
Hi Pennybryn,
Congratulations on your weight loss, it certainly gets harder to do this as we get older.
I was on Arimidex (Anastrozole) and was given an information sheet before I started on it. It is a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor which reduces the amount of oestrogen made by the body. Usually used in post-menapausal women.
As it is not a steroid you should not have any problems with weight gain. I have just re-read all the likely side effects ranging from serious side effects such as major allergy, to uncomfortable side effects such as loss of appetite to very rare side effects such as 'trigger finger', and nowhere does it mention weight gain.
The main side effect from all Aromatase Inhibitors (AI's) is bone density loss. You will need ongoing monitoring for this. Watch your calcium intake and try to keep your Vitamin D intake high. Both of these readings can be obtained through a blood test.
I know I actually lost weight on Arimidex, for the short time I was on it. I lost all interest in food and it could get to be mid afternoon before I realised I had not had breakfast!
Ask your prescribing doctor or GP to print you out an information sheet on Arimidex.
With love
Joy K