Exemestane: Patient Information & Safety Notes
Also known as Aromasin
Other names: aromasin
Exemestane is an FDA-approved, irreversible steroidal aromatase inhibitor that permanently inactivates aromatase, reducing estrogen synthesis. It is approved for breast cancer treatment in postmenopausal women.
In plain language
What Exemestane is used for
- FDA-approved: postmenopausal breast cancer
Taking this medicine
How it is administered
- Oral tablet
Read before you decide
Risks and precautions
Risks and warnings
- Menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, sweating)
- Headache
- Joint and muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Bone density loss with long-term use
Who should not take it
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (teratogenic)
- Premenopausal women (unless in clinical context of ovarian suppression)
Common questions
Patient questions
How is exemestane different from anastrozole?
Both reduce estrogen in postmenopausal women, but exemestane is a steroidal irreversible aromatase inhibitor (permanently inactivates aromatase), while anastrozole is a non-steroidal reversible inhibitor. Both are FDA-approved for breast cancer; the choice depends on patient-specific factors and provider guidance.
This information is educational — not medical advice.
This page is provided for general educational purposes and summarizes publicly available data from sources such as the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. It is not a substitute for the judgment of a licensed clinician and should not be used to start, stop, or change any medication. It may be incomplete or out of date, and individual circumstances vary. Always talk with your prescriber or pharmacist about your specific medications and health conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
Sources & References
Learn more about where our data comes from and how we write and review medical content.