Previously Arimidex was only approved for use after disease progression following tamoxifen treatment. Two pivotal studies found that Arimidex was as effective and well tolerated as tamoxifen when prescribed at the time of diagnosis for women with advanced breast cancer. Arimidex is a non-steroid aromatase inhibitor, which works to lower the amount of circulating estrogens in the body. Arimidex and tamoxifen work in very different ways. Arimidex stops the production of estrogen from the adrenal glands a main source of estrogen for post- menopausal women.
Tamoxifen interferes with the cancer cell's ability to use estrogen for fuel to divide and grow.
Arimidex is also currently being evaluated in comparison to tamoxifen as an adjuvant therapy for early breast cancer in a multinational trial. AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of ethical pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. No part of this publication may be redistributed in any form without prior permission. Terms and conditions for users . Privacy policy .