Aromasin vs Arimidex
Arimidex and Aromasin are both brand-name hormone therapy medications designed to combat breast cancer. These medications function by lowering estrogen levels in the body, slowing or stopping the growth of cancerous breast cells. Though similar in function, what sets Arimidex apart from Aromasin?
Aromasin
Aromasin, known generically as Exemestane, received FDA approval in 1999 for treating breast cancer in postmenopausal women, particularly those who have taken tamoxifen for two to three years. It comes as a 25 mg tablet taken daily after a meal, with studies indicating that food aids the absorption of Aromasin.
Arimidex
Arimidex, or Anastrozole, was FDA-approved in 1995 for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is administered as a 1 mg tablet once daily, with or without food, as its absorption is not significantly affected by meals.
What is the Difference Between Arimidex and Aromasin?
Curious about how Aromasin and Arimidex differ? Let’s compare their ingredients, uses, side effects, dosage, cost, and effectiveness.
Ingredients
The primary active ingredient in Aromasin is exemestane, while Arimidex contains anastrozole. Both drugs are aromatase inhibitors that work by reducing estrogen production.
Uses
Aromasin and Arimidex are both utilized to treat advanced breast cancer. They are also used in:
- Adjuvant treatment
- Initial treatment for hormone receptor-positive or hormone receptor-unknown breast cancer
Dosage
Aromasin is typically taken as 25 mg once daily, while Arimidex is taken as 1 mg daily.
Side Effects
Given that both medications are from the same class, they share many side effects. Common side effects include:
For Aromasin:
- Increased sweating
- Increased appetite
For Arimidex:
- Weakness
- Arthritis
- Sore throat
- Vomiting
- Skin rash
- Swelling of legs, ankles, feet, or armpits
- Bone pain
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
Common to Both Aromasin and Arimidex:
- Hot flashes
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Joint pain, including back pain
- Headache
- Nausea
Effectiveness
Research shows that Aromasin and Arimidex are similarly effective. After five years of treatment, the cancer survival rates for patients range from 88% to 90%.
Cost
Aromasin is priced between $1,093 and $1,149, while Arimidex costs range from $1,548 to $1,627. However, the Indian version of 25 mg Aromasin can be purchased for $263.76. Actual costs will depend on factors like your insurance, location, and pharmacy.
Which is better: Arimidex vs Aromasin?
Both drugs are effective options for hormone therapy in treating breast cancer. Clinical studies suggest that Arimidex and Aromasin are equally effective in treating breast cancer in postmenopausal women.