Aromasin (Pfizer)
This Web site is intended for U.S. patients only and offers information on AROMASIN and a number of tools and resources, including:
- A Doctor Discussion Guide
- Tips on managing side effects
- Patient testimonials
- Access to PETALS, a patient support program.
General Information
Aromasin is also called exemestane. It is a type of hormone therapy drug called an aromatase inhibitor, that is used to treat breast cancer.
Many breast cancers are stimulated to grow by the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone. These breast cancers are called ‘hormone sensitive’ or ‘hormone receptor positive’ and can be treated with drugs that block the effects of these hormones.
Although women past their menopause don’t produce oestrogen from their ovaries, they still produce a small amount by turning other sex hormones (androgens) into oestrogen. Androgens are made by your adrenal glands, the small glands above your kidneys. Androgens need an enzyme called aromatase to turn them into oestrogen. This change happens mainly in fatty tissue, muscle and the skin. Aromatase inhibitors stop or ‘inhibit’ aromatase, so it can’t change the androgen into oestrogen. These drugs are only suitable for women who've had their menopause
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