Aromasin (Exemestane)

Do's 

• Read the patient information leaflet, if available from your pharmacist, before initiating the use of Aromasin and each time you obtain a refill. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.   
• Take this medication by mouth with food (after a meal) as directed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily.   
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.  
• Use this medication regularly to derive the maximum benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. 
• Refrain from handling this medication or breathing the dust from the tablets if you are pregnant or may become pregnant due to the potential for this drug to be absorbed through the skin and lungs. 
• Promptly inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens, such as the development of new breast lumps.   

The dosage is tailored to your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.   

Common Side Effects:

• Edema
• Influenza-like symptoms
• Fever
• Generalized weakness
• Pain at tumor sites
• Asthenia
• Peripheral edema
• Joint pain
• Hair loss
• Weight gain
• Headache
• Nausea

Serious Side Effects: 

• Chest pain or pressure
• New or unusual bone pain
• Swelling in hands or feet
• Feeling short of breath
• Signs of a blood clot
• Allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide more information about potential side effects and suggest ways to help reduce them. If you experience any concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Aromasin can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, so women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets. It can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, based on findings from animal studies and its mechanism of action.

Aromasin is not recommended for use in pre-menopausal women. Safety and efficacy have not been established in these patients.

The use of aromatase inhibitors, including Aromasin, may increase the risk of ischemic cardiovascular diseases.

Aromasin lowers the level of estrogen in the body, which may lead to a reduction in bone mineral density over time. This can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fracture.

Individuals with liver problems, including serious conditions such as cirrhosis, should undergo testing before starting treatment with Aromasin, as it may build up in the body and cause side effects.

Aromasin may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or factors that affect their health. Discuss one's health history with a healthcare provider before taking Aromasin.