From the FDA Drug Label
Clinical trials have been conducted with anastrozole, up to 60 mg in a single dose given to healthy male volunteers and up to 10 mg daily given to postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer; these dosages were tolerated. The drug anastrozole (Arimidex) has been studied in male patients at doses of up to 60 mg in a single dose, and was found to be tolerated in healthy male volunteers 1.
From the Research
Arimidex (anastrozole) can be prescribed to male patients primarily to manage estrogen-related side effects from testosterone therapy or to treat certain conditions like gynecomastia, with a typical dose of 0.5 to 1 mg daily. The medication works by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which converts testosterone to estrogen, thereby reducing estrogen levels in the body 2. Men using Arimidex should be aware of potential side effects including joint pain, decreased bone density, and lipid profile changes, as seen in studies where anastrozole significantly increased the levels of low density lipoprotein-cholesterol and total cholesterol, and significantly reduced the level of triglycerides 3. Regular monitoring of estrogen levels, bone density, and lipid panels is essential while on this medication, as anastrozole has been shown to cause bone loss in postmenopausal women, but this effect can be counterbalanced with the use of bisphosphonates like risedronate 4, 5. Men should not completely eliminate estrogen as some is necessary for proper bone health, cognitive function, and cardiovascular health. Arimidex should only be used under medical supervision, as inappropriate use can lead to estrogen levels that are too low, causing adverse effects. Treatment duration varies based on the condition being treated, with some men needing short-term therapy while others may require ongoing management. Key considerations for the use of Arimidex in male patients include:
- Monitoring for side effects such as joint pain and lipid profile changes
- Regular assessment of bone density to prevent osteoporosis
- Adjusting the dose to minimize adverse effects while maintaining therapeutic efficacy
- Considering the use of bisphosphonates to counterbalance the bone loss associated with anastrozole therapy.