Key facts about Exemestane
What dosages is Exemestane available in?
Exemestane is available as a 25 mg oral tablet.
What is Exemestane used for?
Exemestane is an aromatase inhibitor and is used for the following:
Early breast cancer in postmenopausal women who’ve had 2 to 3 years of treatment with tamoxifen
Advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women that’s getting worse following treatment with tamoxifen
How does Exemestane work?
Exemestane is an aromatase inhibitor. Aromatase is a protein in your body that helps convert other hormones into estrogen. By blocking aromatase, Exemestane lowers the amount of estrogen in your body. Estrogen can fuel the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells. Without estrogen, cancer cells won’t have the “fuel” they need to grow or spread.
How do I take Exemestane?
The typical dose is 25 mg taken by mouth once daily after a meal. This dose might differ if you’re taking medications that might interact with Exemestane.
Is it safe for me to take Exemestane?
Exemestane is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Exemestane Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Exemestane:
- Hot flashes
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Sweating more often
- High blood pressure
- Hair loss
- Trouble sleeping
- Headache
- Depression
Exemestane Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Exemestane.
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Exemestane
The following medications may interact with Exemestane:
- Strong CYP 3A4 inducers: Concomitant use of strong CYP 3A4 inducers decreases Exemestane exposure. Increase the Exemestane dose to 50 mg.
Who makes Exemestane?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Exemestane safe in pregnancy?
Taking Exemestane during pregnancy or within 1 month of becoming pregnant can harm your unborn baby.
Females who are able to become pregnant should have a pregnancy test within 7 days before starting treatment with Exemestane.
Females who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control (contraceptive) during treatment with Exemestane and for 1 month after your last dose of Exemestane. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
