Exemestane
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Aromatase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Exemestane
Summary
Exemestane is used to treat early and advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women, especially after treatment with tamoxifen.
Exemestane works by inhibiting a substance called the aromatase enzyme in your body. This enzyme is responsible for converting certain hormones into estrogen. By reducing estrogen production, Exemestane can slow or stop the growth of certain breast tumors that require estrogen to grow.
The usual daily dose of Exemestane for adults is one 25 mg tablet taken once daily after a meal. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions.
Common side effects of Exemestane include hot flushes, fatigue, joint pain, headache, and insomnia. Serious adverse effects can include shortness of breath and chest pain. If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Exemestane should not be used in premenopausal women, pregnant women, or those breastfeeding. It can interact with certain medications, so it's important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. It's also contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Indications and Purpose
How does Exemestane work?
Exemestane works by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for converting androgens into estrogens in the body. By reducing estrogen production, Exemestane decreases the growth stimulus for estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells, helping to slow or stop tumor progression.
Is Exemestane effective?
Exemestane has been shown to be effective in treating early and advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to improve disease-free survival and reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence when used after tamoxifen therapy. It works by lowering estrogen levels, which can slow or stop the growth of certain breast tumors.
What is Exemestane?
Exemestane is used to treat early and advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women, especially after treatment with tamoxifen. It belongs to a class of medications called aromatase inhibitors, which work by decreasing estrogen production in the body. This reduction in estrogen can slow or stop the growth of certain breast tumors that require estrogen to grow.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Exemestane?
Exemestane is typically used for several years. In the treatment of early breast cancer, it is used to complete a total of five consecutive years of adjuvant hormonal therapy, following 2 to 3 years of tamoxifen. The duration may vary based on individual treatment plans, so it's important to follow your doctor's instructions.
How do I take Exemestane?
Take Exemestane once daily after a meal, as food increases its absorption. There are no specific food restrictions while taking Exemestane, but it's important to follow your doctor's instructions and maintain a balanced diet to support overall health during treatment.
How long does it take for Exemestane to start working?
Exemestane begins to lower estrogen levels within a few days of starting treatment. However, the full therapeutic effect, such as slowing or stopping tumor growth, may take several weeks to become apparent. It's important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor.
How should I store Exemestane?
Store Exemestane tablets at room temperature, between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Avoid storing it in the bathroom to prevent exposure to moisture.
What is the usual dose of Exemestane?
The usual daily dose of Exemestane for adults is one 25 mg tablet taken once daily after a meal. Exemestane is not recommended for use in children, and its safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Exemestane be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Exemestane should not be used while breastfeeding, as it is unknown if the drug passes into human milk. To avoid potential harm to the infant, women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose of Exemestane.
Can Exemestane be taken safely while pregnant?
Exemestane is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm. Animal studies have shown that it can cause embryo-fetal toxicity and increased incidence of abortions. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose. If pregnancy occurs, contact your doctor immediately.
Can I take Exemestane with other prescription drugs?
Exemestane can interact with drugs that induce CYP 3A4, such as rifampicin and phenytoin, which may decrease its effectiveness. It's important to inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions and ensure the safe use of Exemestane.
Is Exemestane safe for the elderly?
Exemestane can be used in elderly patients, but they should be monitored closely due to potential side effects like bone mineral density reduction. It's important for elderly patients to have their bone health assessed and managed appropriately. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Exemestane?
Exemestane does not specifically limit the ability to exercise. However, side effects such as fatigue, joint pain, or muscle pain may affect your ability to engage in physical activities. If you experience these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor to find ways to manage them and maintain your exercise routine.
Who should avoid taking Exemestane?
Exemestane is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients. It should not be used in premenopausal women, pregnant women, or those breastfeeding. Important warnings include the risk of bone mineral density reduction, potential fetal harm, and interactions with certain medications like CYP 3A4 inducers. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
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