Aromasin (Exemestane) for Breast Cancer

Overview
Aromasin is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2005 to treat estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer after menopause. Aromasin is used as an adjuvant, or post-surgical, treatment, and is usually prescribed to people who have been on tamoxifen for two or three years. It reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk of breast cancer recurring after surgery. Aromasin is also used as a treatment for advanced breast cancer, and may be prescribed to reduce the chances of developing breast cancer in post-menopausal individuals at high risk for the disease. Aromasin is also known by its drug name, exemestane.

About two-thirds of breast cancers are estrogen receptor-positive, meaning that they require estrogen in order to grow. Aromasin is a member of a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors, which block the enzyme that helps produce estrogen. Aromasin is believed to work by reducing the production of estrogen in the body, thereby slowing the growth of breast cancer.

How do I take it?
Aromasin is a pill taken orally once a day.

Your doctor may test your Vitamin D levels before you begin taking Aromasin. They may also order regular tests to monitor cholesterol, liver function and bone density while you are taking Aromasin.

Women of childbearing age should not handle or breathe dust from Aromasin tablets.

You may need to take Aromasin for several years.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Aromasin.

Side effects
Common side effects of Aromasin include hot flushes, fatigue, joint pain, headache, insomnia, and increased sweating.

Another common side effect of Aromasin is osteoporosis, which contributes to fractures.

Rare but serious side effects of Aromasin can include liver problems and skin reactions such as blisters, ulcers or lesions. Call your doctor immediately if you experience skin problems or liver symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin), pain or swelling in your abdomen, or general feelings of unwellness.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Aromasin — Pfizer
https://www.aromasin.com