Arimidex Special Precautions

ARIMIDEX is not recommended for use in children as safety and efficacy have not been established in this group of patients.
The menopause should be defined biochemically in any patient where there is doubt about menopausal status.
There are no data to support the safe use of ARIMIDEX in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment, or patients with severe impairment of renal function (creatinine clearance less than 20ml/min).
Women with osteoporosis or at risk of osteoporosis should have their bone mineral density formally assessed by bone densitometry e.g. DEXA scanning at the commencement of treatment and at regular intervals thereafter. Treatment or prophylaxis for osteoporosis should be initiated as appropriate and carefully monitored.
There are no data available for the use of anastrozole with LHRH analogues. This combination should not be used outside clinical trials.
As ARIMIDEX lowers circulating oestrogen levels, it may cause a reduction in bone mineral density with a possible consequent increased risk of fracture. The use of bisphosphonates may stop further bone mineral loss caused by ARIMIDEX in postmenopausal women and could be considered.
Effects on ability to drive and use machines: ARIMIDEX is unlikely to impair the ability of patients to drive and operate machinery. However, asthenia and somnolence have been reported with the use of ARIMIDEX and caution should be observed when driving or operating machinery while such symptoms persist.