Why is this medication prescribed?

Aromasin is mainly used to treat early breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have previously been treated with tamoxifen (another type of hormone therapy). It is also prescribed for advanced breast cancer that has progressed despite other treatments. Exemestane is specifically indicated for hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer, where it works by reducing the amount of estrogen the body makes, thereby slowing or stopping the growth of the tumor cells that require estrogen to grow.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how you should use it:

• Dosage: Aromasin is usually taken once daily after a meal. The typical dose is 25 mg per day, but the exact dosage will depend on the patient’s condition and response to treatment.
• Method of Administration: Take the medication orally with a full glass of water, preferably after a meal to enhance absorption.
• Consistency: It is essential to take Aromasin at the same time each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your body.
• Duration of Use: Continue taking Aromasin as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you feel well. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor, as it might affect the treatment outcome.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and instructions.

Other uses for this medicine

While Aromasin is primarily used to treat hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, it may also be used off-label for:

• Prevention of Breast Cancer Recurrence: In some cases, it may be used in high-risk postmenopausal women to prevent the recurrence of breast cancer.
• Adjuvant Therapy: It may be used as adjuvant therapy (additional treatment) in certain patients who have completed initial breast cancer treatment.
• Treatment of Gynecomastia: Sometimes, Aromasin is used off-label in men to manage gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) by reducing estrogen levels.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow When Using Aromasin:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to exemestane or any other medications.
• Medical History: Share your medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have liver or kidney disease, osteoporosis, or bone density issues, as Aromasin may decrease bone density.
• Bone Health: Since Aromasin lowers estrogen levels, it can reduce bone mineral density, increasing the risk of fractures or osteoporosis. Regular bone density tests may be recommended, and supplements like calcium and vitamin D may be advised.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aromasin is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding. It can harm an unborn baby, so effective contraception should be used by women of childbearing potential during treatment and for a period after the last dose.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid using Aromasin with estrogen-containing products (like hormone replacement therapy) as they can counteract the effect of the medication. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are taking medications such as rifampin, phenytoin, or St. John’s wort, as these can affect the drug’s effectiveness.
• Liver and Kidney Function: If you have impaired liver or kidney function, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or monitor you more closely.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Aromasin may cause dizziness or tiredness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these side effects.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and instructions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Take with Food: Aromasin should be taken after a meal to enhance its absorption in the body.
• Calcium and Vitamin D: Your doctor may recommend supplements, especially if you are at risk for osteoporosis, to maintain bone health.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium (such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods) and vitamin D (through safe sun exposure or supplements).

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take as Soon as Remembered: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Skip if Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Side Effects of Aromasin (Generic Exemestane):

Common Side Effects:

• Hot Flashes: A common side effect due to decreased estrogen levels.
• Joint or Muscle Pain: Also known as arthralgia, it is a frequent side effect.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is common, particularly during the early stages of treatment.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea or upset stomach.
• Increased Sweating: Including night sweats.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping can be an issue for some patients.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, especially when getting up quickly from a lying or sitting position.
• Increased Appetite or Weight Gain: Changes in weight or appetite might occur.
• Depression or Mood Changes: Emotional changes or mood swings are possible.

Less Common Side Effects:

• High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure may be noticed in some individuals.
• Swelling in Hands, Feet, or Legs: Edema or fluid retention may occur.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms like tingling or pain in the wrists or hands due to nerve compression.
• Hair Thinning: Mild hair loss or thinning is possible.
• Bone Pain: Aromasin can lead to decreased bone density, causing bone pain.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention Immediately):

• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Signs of Liver Problems: Such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, severe abdominal pain, or persistent nausea/vomiting.
• Severe Bone Pain or Fractures: Due to decreased bone density.
• Signs of Heart Problems: Such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in the legs.
• Signs of High Blood Pressure: Including severe headache, blurred vision, or feeling lightheaded.

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Aromasin (Generic Exemestane):

• Store Aromasin at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Keep the medication away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Store Aromasin in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from light and moisture.
• Ensure that the medication is stored in a safe place where children and pets cannot reach it.

Disposal of Aromasin:

• Do not flush Aromasin down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so.
• If available, use a medication take-back program to dispose of the unused or expired medication safely.
• You can also ask your pharmacist about safe disposal methods in your area.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose, call your local emergency number or the Poison Control Center immediately (in the U.S., this is 1-800-222-1222).
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose symptoms may include dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, or fainting. Bring the medication container with you, even if it is empty, to show to the medical team.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Medical Appointments: Keep all scheduled medical and lab appointments to monitor your response to treatment and detect any potential side effects early.
• Medication Interaction Awareness: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Routine Tests: You may need periodic bone density tests and blood tests to check for side effects.
• Inform All Healthcare Providers: Make sure all your doctors and healthcare providers know you are taking Aromasin, especially before any surgery or new treatments.
• Do Not Share Medication: Aromasin is prescribed specifically for your condition; do not share it with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.