Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Arimidex as follows:
Central nervous system side-effects
- Optimum serum calcium levels are very important for normal nerve functions, sensory awareness, mood, and behavior. By increasing serum calcium levels and causing hypercalcemia, Arimidex carries the risk of inducing/aggravating mood disorders. Individuals can present with complaints such as, feeling low and depressed, confusion, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, and restlessness.
Sexual side-effects
- Arimidex inhibits conversion of estrogen precursors to estrogens. Reduced estrogen levels in women taking Arimidex can result in perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms.
- Women experiencing these symptoms can present with vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, mood swings, and depression.
