Anastrozole

Arimidex. Aromatase inhibitor. Blocks estrogen conversion.

Overview

AI

Arimidex. Aromatase inhibitor. Blocks estrogen conversion.

Effects on Markers

Lowers estradiol, can worsen lipids (estrogen is cardioprotective), may reduce IGF-1, can cause joint pain and mood issues if estradiol crashes too low

Compound Guide

Mechanism: Non-steroidal, reversible aromatase inhibitor. Blocks the aromatase enzyme from converting androgens to estrogens. Effect is dose-dependent and reversible -- estrogen rebounds when discontinued.

Dosage:

  • On-cycle (symptom-based): 0.25-0.5 mg EOD, only when E2 symptoms are present
  • High aromatisers: 0.5 mg EOD (rarely need more)
  • Never use prophylactically without symptoms

Administration:

  • Oral tablet, can be taken with or without food
  • Tablet can be split for micro-dosing (0.25mg)

Key Notes:

  • Second-line E2 management -- SERMs (Tamoxifen) are preferred first-line for gyno
  • Worsens lipid profile (estrogen is cardioprotective -- lowering it increases cardiovascular risk)
  • Over-use causes crashed E2: joint pain, lethargy, low libido, mood issues, bone density loss
  • Reversible inhibitor: estrogen can "rebound" when stopped suddenly after prolonged use
  • Symptoms warranting use: gyno onset (puffy/sensitive nipples), excessive water retention, high BP from fluid, ED/mood issues
  • Does NOT need to be used on every cycle -- many users never need an AI

When an AI is genuinely needed versus when the symptoms are something else: How to recognize high estradiol on TRT.

Usage History

Markers to Monitor

Pairs With

How Anastrozole behaves when it is run alongside other compounds.

Used to offset

Stacks the risk

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Reference

Category

AI

Half-Life

2 days

Detection Time

N/A

Usage Summary