For the anabolic steroid user, the effects of Arimidex (Anastrozole)are greatly appreciated in its ability to protect against estrogenic related side effects.

Side Effects of Arimidex:
Arimidex carries with it several possible side effects. Many of the side effects of Arimidex will be response related. Response side effects are common with all medications; some of us can take Aspirin while others can’t. The side effects of Arimidex will also vary depending on anabolic steroid use in a few specific areas. Those who are using Arimidex without anabolic steroids often report weakness and fatigue; in fact, this may be the most common side effect of Arimidex. Most anabolic steroid users will not have this issue with low dose Arimidex use. However, we can make an exception when it is used in hard cutting or competition cycles when calories are very low and training often extremely intense. Other possible side effects of Arimidex use include:

Headache
Hot Flashes
High Blood Pressure
Joint Pain
Depression (rare)
Nausea and or Vomiting (rare)
Arimidex studies have also shown that the AI may have the ability to decrease bone mineral content, which in turn could make the individual more susceptible to osteoporosis. This shouldn’t be a big issue for anabolic steroid users as many anabolic steroids have the ability to promote bone mineral content. As for the primary six possible side effects of Arimidex listed above, while possible most adults should be able to use the AI without any related issues, but keep in mind such issues are possible. We all respond to varying medications differently, we even respond to varying foods differently, which can make total response on an individual basis impossible to fully predict.

The final issue revolving around the side effects of Arimidex surrounds cholesterol. Arimidex does have the ability to negatively effect cholesterol levels, but alone it doesn’t appear to be significant in most cases. However, when conjoined with anabolic steroid use, specifically an aromatizing steroid like testosterone it appears to be significant. For example, studies have shown that a moderate dose of Testosterone Enanthate for 12 weeks does not appear to have a strong affect on cholesterol. However, when this same dose is coupled with an AI like Arimidex it can suppress HDL cholesterol by as much as 25%. In this case, we’re actually talking about therapeutic level doses as well as performance. True performance doses of testosterone will have a stronger impact on HDL cholesterol, and again around a 20%+ decrease in HDL when conjoined with an AI.

Due to the potential cholesterol issues brought on by Arimidex use by the anabolic steroid user, a healthy and cholesterol friendly lifestyle is extremely important. A healthy lifestyle should first and foremost surround your diet. Diets should be low and very limited in saturated fats and simple sugars. They should also be rich in omega fatty acids. Daily fish oil supplementation is advised. It’s also worthwhile to consider the use of a cholesterol antioxidant supplement. And as a final note, if cardiovascular health is to be protected the individual should always incorporate plenty of cardiovascular training into his routine. Daily cardiovascular activity is recommended.

Due to the possible cholesterol issues, moderate anabolic steroid cycles may be best served with SERM’s in order to protect against estrogenic related side effects. SERM’s will not negatively affect cholesterol; in fact, SERM’s like Nolvadex have been shown to promote healthy cholesterol levels due to their ability to act as estrogen in the liver. However, for many a SERM won’t be enough and AI’s will be necessary. If an AI is necessary, the individual should limit his use and only use as much as is actually needed. Some have suggested that a 10mg per day dosing of Nolvadex along with your Arimidex use may actually aid in cholesterol management.