Exemestane

What is Exemestane for?

Exemestane is a medicine that is used to treat breast cancer in post-menopausal women whose tumour may grow in response to estrogen, which is a hormone produced by the body. Exemestane helps to reduce the amount of estrogen produced.

How should I take or use Exemestane?

It is a tablet taken by mouth once a day. It can be taken with food or immediately after food with a glass of water. It should be taken at approximately the same time each day.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Exemestane?

If you miss a dose of Exemestane, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Exemestane?

• Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other medicines or supplements that you are taking.

What are some common side effects of Exemestane?

• Joint, bone and muscle pain
• Hot flushes, increased sweating can sometimes occur when you first start taking Exemestane
  If this persists, take your tablets at bedtime.
• Tiredness and lack of energy
  If tiredness is a problem, do not drive a car or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol as it may make you feel more tired and drowsy.
• Hair thinning may occur
• Nausea
• Osteoporosis
  Calcium supplementation can reduce/prevent bone thinning.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Uncontrolled nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in the first few weeks of treatment
• Excessive swelling of hands, feet or lower legs
• Dizziness
• Chest pain or palpitations
• Having trouble sleeping

How should I store Exemestane?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store at room temperature

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.