Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Arimidex as follows:
- Arimidex is extensively metabolized in the liver, to inactive metabolites. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Arimidex can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, Arimidex could be avoided in individuals with hepatic dysfunction and an alternative medication considered or used with caution, with periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxic symptoms.
- Arimidex intake can result in increased risk for elevated blood pressure. Taking Arimidex along with medications like ergotamine, that also stand a chance of increasing the blood pressure can result in complementation of their individual actions on blood pressure and lead to dangerously elevated blood pressure numbers. Acutely elevated blood pressure in these individuals can significantly increase the risk for development of stroke. So, Arimidex can be avoided taken along with any medications that stand a chance of increasing the blood pressure.
