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Cancer Treatment Aromasin

Aromasin (generic name exemestane) is a medication that is available by prescription only and is used to treat early-stage breast cancer that is estrogen-receptor positive in postmenopausal women.

  1. Time Frame

    • Aromasin is often given to women who have been using the breast cancer drug tamoxifen for two to three years. Tamoxifen use is stopped, and Aromasin is taken until a total of five years of combined tamoxifen/Aromasin use has occurred.

    Function

    • Aromasin aids in stopping the production of estrogen in postmenopausal women. This lowers the risk that any estrogen-dependent breast cancers grow.

    Benefits

    • According to Aromasin.com, using the medication after using tamoxifen for several years reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence versus taking tamoxifen for five years.

    Side Effects

    • Several side effects of Aromasin listed by the Mayo Clinic include cough, an increase in blood pressure, depression, abdominal pain, hot flashes, insomnia and constipation.

    Warning

    • Do not take Aromasin if you are taking medicine containing estrogen. This drug may weaken bone density, so you should talk with your doctor about risks. If you have chest pain or shortness of breath, stop the medication and call your doctor.

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