The following information is a summary about Aromasin. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
What is exemestane?
Exemestane decreases estrogen levels in postmenopausal women. Certain types of breast
cancer require estrogen to grow.
Exemestane is used to treat some types of estrogen-requiring breast cancer in
postmenopausal women whose disease has progressed following tamoxifen (Nolvadex) therapy.
Exemestane may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What is the most important information I should know about exemestane?
Exemestane should not be taken if you are premenopausal or if you are taking other
medicines that contain estrogen.
Who should not take exemestane?
Exemestane should not be taken if you are premenopausal or if you are taking other
medicines that contain estrogen.
Before taking exemestane, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease. You
may not be able to take exemestane, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special
monitoring during your treatment.
Exemestane is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that exemestane is
known to harm an unborn baby. Do not take exemestane without first talking to
your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether exemestane passes into breast milk. Do not
take exemestane without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take exemestane?
Take exemestane exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these
directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Exemestane is usually taken once a day after a meal. Follow your doctor's
instructions.
Store exemestane at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a
double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of an exemestane overdose are not known.
What should I avoid while taking exemestane?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking exemestane unless
otherwise directed by your doctor.
Exemestane side effects
Stop taking exemestane and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an
allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or
face; or hives) to exemestane.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Notify your doctor if you
experience
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increased sweating,
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fatigue,
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swelling or water retention,
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hot flashes,
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depression or anxiety,
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insomnia,
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abdominal pain,
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nausea or vomiting,
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diarrhea or constipation,
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dizziness or headache,
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changes in appetite,
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shortness of breath or coughing, or
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flu-like symptoms.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect exemestane?
There are no known significant interactions between exemestane and other medicines.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter
medicines while taking exemestane.
Where can I get more information?
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Your pharmacist has additional information about exemestane written for health
professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Exemestane is available with a prescription under the brand name Aromasin. Other brand
or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have
about this medication, especially if it is new to you.
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Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share
your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
