Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Arimidex as follows:
- Arimidex can interact with medications such as, tamoxifen and raloxifene, which are estrogen receptor modulators that reduce the response to estrogens and help prevent the growth of tumors in the breast tissue. Concurrent administration of Arimidex with these medications can result in increased estrogen availability and compromised therapeutic benefit with Arimidex. Also, concurrent tamoxifen intake can lead to induction of liver enzymes that speed up the metabolism of Arimidex, thus compromising the therapeutic benefit of Arimidex further. So, Arimidex should be avoided taken along with estrogen receptor modulator drugs, tamoxifen and raloxifene.
- Arimidex use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in birth defects. So, Arimidex use should be avoided during pregnancy and in women planning to get pregnant. Women in active reproductive age group, taking Arimidex on a regular basis must employ effective contraceptive measures in order to avoid getting pregnant.
