Arimidex, also known as anastrozole, is a medication primarily used in the treatment of breast cancer. However, it has also become a popular choice among bodybuilders as a means of controlling estrogen levels during anabolic androgenic steroid cycles.

One important thing you should understand, though, is that Arimidex is by no means a PCT compound.  

It’s an AI so it belongs ON cycle, not AFTER it. You’ll see it from the description of the compound yourself.

What is Arimidex?

By structure, Arimidex is a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor, which means it works by blocking the enzyme aromatase from converting androgens into estrogen. 

By reducing the amount of estrogen in the body, Arimidex can help prevent the negative side effects associated with high estrogen levels:

  • Water retention;
  • Gynecomastia;
  • Fat gains;
  • Mood swings;
  • Depression;
  • Anxiety;
  • Low libido;
  • Decreased sperm count;
  • And many others.

Bodybuilders often use Arimidex during AAS cycles to control estrogen levels and avoid these nasty sides.

What is PCT and What if You Skip It?

Post-cycle therapy is a period of 2 to 4 weeks, sometimes up to 10 weeks, after your anabolic steroid cycle, needed to restore the natural Testosterone production. 

If you don't go for a post-cycle therapy, it can lead to a number of negative consequences. We can name three main risks here:

Risk #1 — Hormonal Imbalance

One of the main concerns is that without PCT, the body may not be able to fully restore its natural hormone levels. This can result in a decrease in testosterone production, which will INEVITABLY lead to a loss of muscle mass and strength.

Risk #2 — Shutdown

Additionally, when you stop taking anabolic steroids, your body's natural testosterone production may shut down, so you may experience symptoms like:

  • Decreased libido;
  • Fatigue;
  • Depression;
  • Muscle loss. 

PCT is used to help the body recover its natural testosterone levels and avoid these negative side effects.

It's important to note that PCT use should be supervised by a doctor, and the use of anabolic steroids should be avoided without a prescription and guidance from a medical professional.

How to Take Arimidex Right?

It is typically used in a small dose during the cycle to prevent estrogen levels from rising too high.

The typical protocol for Arimidex therapy is to start with a low dose of 0.5mg per day and adjust the dose as needed based on blood work and symptoms.

So What are Arimidex PCT Alternatives? 

Arimidex should not be a part of a post-cycle therapy (PCT) protocol because it is not necessary for restoring natural hormone levels after a cycle of anabolic steroids. 

PCT typically involves the use of drugs like clomiphene citrate aka Clomid or tamoxifen citrate aka Nolvadex. 

Nolvadex and Clomid help to stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, which in turn can help to restore natural testosterone production. 

Arimidex AND Nolvadex on PCT would be too much for your natural estrogen and would completely shut it down, turning your daily life into an endless set of miserable side effects. 

Best AI Alternatives ON Cycle?

While Arimidex is a popular choice among bodybuilders, there are also alternative options available. 

Letrozole, also known as Femara, is another aromatase inhibitor that can be used in a similar manner. It’s a new compound, relatively, of course, and it's believed to be more aggressive than other options.  

Aromasin is one more aromatase inhibitor, though it’s slightly less powerful. It’s also capable of reducing the extra estrogen levels on cycle and also — should not be a part of your PCT. 

References

  1. Aromatase inhibitors in men: effects and therapeutic options https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3143915/ 
  2. ARIMIDEX: a new oral, once-a-day aromatase inhibitor https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7626450/ 
  3. Should bodybuilders be taking Arimidex? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/arimidex-bodybuilding