Health Library

Exemestane (By mouth)

Exemestane (ex-e-MES-tane)

Treats breast cancer in women who have stopped menstruating (postmenopausal).

Brand Name(s):

Aromasin

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use exemestane with hormone medicine that contains estrogen, including birth control pills or patches.
• Some foods and medicines can affect how exemestane works. Tell your doctor if you are using carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampicin, or St John's wort.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Pregnancy after menopause is not likely, but if you think you could be pregnant, tell your doctor. This medicine could harm an unborn baby. If you are a woman who can bear children, your doctor may give you a pregnancy test 7 days before you start using this medicine to make sure you are not pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose.
• Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose.
• Tell your doctor if you have bone marrow problems (such as lymphocytopenia) or bone problems (such as osteoporosis).
• This medicine may cause weaker bones, which may lead to osteoporosis and fracture.
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain, trouble breathing, uneven heartbeat
• Unusual or severe bone or back pain

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache, nausea
• Increased sweating
• Joint pain
• Tiredness
• Trouble sleeping
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024