Indications
Aromasin, also known as exemestane, is a medication used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Exemestane belongs to a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors. It works by reducing the amount of estrogen in the body, thereby slowing down the growth of certain types of breast tumors.
Aromasin is used in certain circumstances to treat early and advanced breast cancer. In the case of early breast cancer, the cancer is only present in the breast, while in advanced breast cancer, cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It can be highly effective in treating cancers that depend on estrogen to grow and spread.
Uses and Dosage
Aromasin comes as a 25-milligram (mg) tablet that should be taken orally once a day. It should be taken with a meal to ensure maximum absorption, and at the same time, every day is recommended to maintain steady levels of the drug in the body.
The standard dosage for Aromasin is one 25-milligram (mg) tablet taken once per day after a meal.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Aromasin May Include:
- Depression
- Feeling tired
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Hot flashes
- Increased sweating
- Joint pain
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Aromasin Include:
- Allergic reaction
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Heart problems such as
- Osteoporosis (bone loss)
Form and Strength
Aromasin and its generic alternative Exemestane are available in the following forms and strengths:
Aromasin: Tablet
- 25 mg
Exemestane: Tablet
- 25 mg
Caution
- Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed during treatment with exemestane. Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment with exemestane, and for 1 month after your final dose. If you plan to start breastfeeding after you have stopped for a while, seek advice from breastfeeding experts if needed.
- Exemestane may decrease bone mineral density when used for a long time. A low bone mineral density can cause weak bones or osteoporosis. If you have any questions about this, talk to your doctor.
- If you miss a dose of a medication, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
- Be aware that this drug may make you dizzy or tired, and that alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you dizzier. Therefore, do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the exemestane given?
Aromasin is usually used for up to 5 years. For certain types of breast cancer, the drug may be used for as long as 10 years. Ask your doctor how long you may need to take Aromasin.
How should this medicine be used?
Exemestane comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day after a meal. Take exemestane at around the same time every day.
How fast does Aromasin lower estrogen?
After a single dose of exemestane 25 mg, the maximal suppression of circulating estrogens occurred 2 to 3 days after dosing and persisted for 4 to 5 days.
Resources
- https://breastcancernow.org/information-support/facing-breast-cancer/going-through-breast-cancer-treatment/hormone-therapy/exemestane-aromasin
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/aromasin
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/aromasin#side-effects
- https://www.rxlist.com/aromasin-side-effects-drug-center.htm
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