Exemestane

Generic Name: exemestane

Aromatase Inhibitor [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Exemestane

Exemestane tablets contain 25 mg of exemestane, an irreversible, steroidal aromatase inactivator used in breast cancer treatment.

Overview

Exemestane tablets contain 25 mg of exemestane, an irreversible, steroidal aromatase inactivator used in breast cancer treatment.

Uses

Indicated for adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal women with estrogen-receptor positive early breast cancer after tamoxifen therapy, and for treating advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women with disease progression following tamoxifen.

Dosage

Recommended dose is one 25 mg tablet once daily after a meal. For patients receiving strong CYP 3A4 inducers, increase dose to 50 mg once daily after a meal.

Side Effects

Common adverse reactions in early breast cancer include hot flushes (21%), fatigue (16%), arthralgia (15%), headache (13%), insomnia (12%), and increased sweating (12%).

Interactions

Strong CYP 3A4 inducers (rifampicin, phenytoin) decrease exemestane exposure; increase dose to 50 mg daily.

Warnings

Reductions in bone mineral density occur with exemestane use. Routine vitamin D assessment recommended. Can cause fetal harm; advise effective contraception during and for 1 month after treatment. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to exemestane.

Pregnancy

Based on animal studies, exemestane can cause fetal harm including abortions and embryo-fetal toxicity. Advise females to use effective contraception during treatment and for 1 month after final dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Exemestane used for?

Indicated for adjuvant treatment of postmenopausal women with estrogen-receptor positive early breast cancer after tamoxifen therapy, and for treating advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women with disease progression following tamoxifen.

What are the side effects of Exemestane?

Common adverse reactions in early breast cancer include hot flushes (21%), fatigue (16%), arthralgia (15%), headache (13%), insomnia (12%), and increased sweating (12%).

Can I take Exemestane during pregnancy?

Based on animal studies, exemestane can cause fetal harm including abortions and embryo-fetal toxicity. Advise females to use effective contraception during treatment and for 1 month after final dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment.

What are the important warnings for Exemestane?

Reductions in bone mineral density occur with exemestane use. Routine vitamin D assessment recommended. Can cause fetal harm; advise effective contraception during and for 1 month after treatment. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to exemestane.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.