If you’re taking exemexane for breast cancer or hormone therapy, you probably wonder what your body might do to the drug. The good news is most people handle it fine, but a few side effects pop up more often than others. Knowing what to expect helps you stay ahead of problems and keep treatment on track.
About one‑in‑five users get mild hot flashes, night sweats, or a feeling of warmth that comes on suddenly. These usually ease after a few weeks. Joint or muscle aches are another frequent complaint; they’re often called “arthralgia” but you can just think of them as sore knees or shoulders that improve with gentle stretching.
Some people notice a loss of bone density over time. Exemestane lowers estrogen, which can weaken bones, especially in post‑menopausal women. Talk to your doctor about calcium, vitamin D, or a bone‑strengthening medication if you’re on the drug for more than a year.
Rarely, exemestane can cause liver issues. Watch for yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, or unusual fatigue. If any of those show up, call your doctor right away – they’ll likely order a liver function test.
Blood clotting problems are also infrequent but serious. Symptoms include sudden swelling in a leg, chest pain, or shortness of breath. These need emergency care.
Other occasional side effects are nausea, mild headache, or a change in mood. Most of the time, they’re manageable with over‑the‑counter remedies or a short break from the medication.
It’s worth noting that because exemestane lowers estrogen, some women experience vaginal dryness or reduced libido. A water‑based lubricant or a short course of low‑dose estrogen cream (if your doctor approves) can help.
When you start feeling a new symptom, write it down: when it began, how long it lasts, and anything that makes it better or worse. This journal makes it easier for your doctor to decide if the side effect is drug‑related or something else.
Don’t stop taking exemestane on your own. Skipping doses can reduce its effectiveness against breast cancer and may cause hormonal rebound symptoms. If a side effect feels unbearable, talk to your doctor about adjusting the dose or switching to another aromatase inhibitor.
In summary, most side effects are mild and improve with time. Keep an eye on bone health, liver function, and any signs of blood clots. Use a symptom log, stay in touch with your healthcare team, and you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes up while on exemestane.
Aug, 23 2025
A clear, up‑to‑date look at how exemestane may affect clotting, what the numbers say, how it compares to other aromatase inhibitors, and practical steps to stay safe.