From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION 2. 1 Recommended Dose The dose of anastrozole tablet is one 1 mg tablet taken once a day. The optimal dosing regimen for Anastrazole (Arimidex) to manage testosterone levels is 1 mg taken once a day.
- The dose does not need to be adjusted for patients with renal impairment or for elderly patients.
- No changes in dose are recommended for patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment. 1
From the Research
The optimal dosing regimen for anastrozole (Arimidex) to manage testosterone levels is typically 0.5 to 1 mg taken orally once or twice per week, as supported by the most recent study 2 from 2021. For men using testosterone replacement therapy who are experiencing elevated estrogen side effects, starting with 0.5 mg twice weekly is often recommended, with dosage adjustments based on blood test results. Anastrozole works by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen, thereby reducing estrogen levels while potentially increasing testosterone levels. It's essential to note that anastrozole should only be used under medical supervision, as improper use can lead to estrogen levels that are too low, which may cause joint pain, decreased bone density, and mood changes. Regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels (testosterone, estradiol, and other relevant markers) are crucial, typically every 4-8 weeks when starting treatment and then every 3-6 months once stable. The medication should be taken consistently on the same days each week to maintain stable hormone levels. Some key points to consider when using anastrozole for testosterone management include:
- Monitoring estradiol levels to avoid overly suppressing estrogen, which can have negative effects on bone density and mood 3
- Adjusting the dosage based on individual response to therapy, as some men may require higher or lower doses to achieve optimal testosterone and estrogen levels 4
- Being aware of the potential for anastrozole to be prescribed off-label for men, as its FDA approval is primarily for breast cancer treatment in women. Overall, anastrozole can be an effective tool for managing testosterone levels in men, particularly those with elevated estrogen levels, when used under medical supervision and with regular monitoring of hormone levels 2.