Arimidex (anastrazole) is a medication used to manage breast cancer. It belongs to a category of medications called nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors, according to MedlinePlus. It decreases the female hormone estrogen in your body and subsequently slows the growth of breast cancer cells. Typically, you will take 1 milligram of Armidex daily, says the National Library of Medicine.
Prevalent Side Effects
Arimidex can cause the following common side effects: joint pain or stiffness, back pain, nausea and depression, according to Drugs.com. It can cause changes in your mood, bone pain and hot flashes. MedlinePlus says that it can cause alopecia (hair loss), weakness, headache, constipation, diarrhea and heartburn. Its other side effects include poor appetite, breast pain, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, vomiting, diaphoresis (sweating), vaginal dryness or bleeding and nervousness. In a controlled-study of 3,092 patients receiving 1 milligram of Armidex, the National Library of Medicine says that 19 percent experienced asthenia (physical weakness), 17 percent had pain, 10 percent developed back pain and headache, 9 percent had stomach pain and 11 percent developed nausea. Additionally, 8 percent had constipation, 9 percent developed diarrhea, 17 percent had arthritis, 7 percent had bone pain and 13 percent experienced depression.
Serious Side Effects
MedlinePlus indicates that Arimidex's dangerous side effects include chest pain, trouble breathing, hives, dysphagia (trouble swallowing), jaundice (yellowing of your skin and eyes), painful urination, a sore throat, cough, blurry vision and stomach pain. It can cause edema (swelling of your arm), skin blisters or lesions, swollen glands and swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat. Get medical assistance immediately when these side effects emerge.
Additional Concerns
According to the National Library of Medicine, Arimedex can pose a risk to your baby when you are pregnant. It may cause low birth weight and bone softening. However, no studies have showed this but it is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
MedlinePlus says that you should tell your doctor if you are taking hormonal replacement therapy, hormonal contraceptives, tamoxifen or raloxifen. These medications may interact with Arimedex and cause the serious aforementioned side effects.
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