Side Effects of Exemestane

Among the common side effects of exemestane are hot flashes, nausea, and fatigue. In most cases, exemestane side effects are minor and either don't require treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Certain side effects, however, should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. Some of these more serious side effects include an increase in tumor size, signs of an allergic reaction, or depression.

Exemestane (Aromasin)

An Introduction to Side Effects of Exemestane

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with exemestane (Aromasin^®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with exemestane. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of exemestane side effects with you.)

Common Side Effects of Exemestane

Exemestane has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented. In these studies, the most common side effects of exemestane included:

Hot flashes -- in up to 32.9 percent of women
Fatigue -- up to 22 percent
Nausea -- up to 18 percent
Hair loss -- up to 15.1 percent (see Aromasin and Hair Loss)
High blood pressure (hypertension) -- up to 15.1 percent
Joint pain -- up to 14.6 percent
Headaches -- up to 13.1 percent
Insomnia -- up to 12.4 percent (see Aromasin and Insomnia).

Other common side effects (occurring in 5 to 12 percent of people) included:

Increased sweating
Vision problems
Arm or leg pain
Back pain
Arthritis
Dizziness
Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
Diarrhea
Muscle pain
Flu symptoms (such as fever or chills)
Swelling or water retention
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Constipation.

(Side Effects of Exemestane Continued: Page 2)