Exemestane

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Aromatase Inhibitor	Aromasin®	Cancer-related

Exemestane - What is it for

Exemestane is a medicine that is used to treat breast cancer in post-menopausal women whose tumour may grow in response to estrogen, which is a hormone produced by the body. Exemestane helps to reduce the amount of estrogen produced.

Exemestane - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Exemestane cause?

Joint, bone and muscle pain
Hot flushes, increased sweating can sometimes occur when you first start taking Exemestane
If this persists, take your tablets at bedtime.
Tiredness and lack of energy
If tiredness is a problem, do not drive a car or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol as it may make you feel more tired and drowsy.
Hair thinning may occur
Nausea
Osteoporosis
Calcium supplementation can reduce/prevent bone thinning.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Uncontrolled nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in the first few weeks of treatment
Excessive swelling of hands, feet or lower legs
Dizziness
Chest pain or palpitations
Having trouble sleeping

Before taking Exemestane , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other medicines or supplements that you are taking.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Exemestane ?

Exemestane - Dosage and How to Use

How should Exemestane be used?

It is a tablet taken by mouth once a day. It can be taken with food or immediately after food with a glass of water. It should be taken at approximately the same time each day.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Exemestane, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time.