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A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Houston, TX
December 2, 2025
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A MyBCTeam Member

Had to stop anastrozole after about 5 mos. To many side effects also mentioned before. Put on exemestane for about 2 weeks finger swelled to twice the side, red, hurt like hell. So stopped it. Seems as both medicines triggered arthritis in me. Knees now very bad, osteoporosis, etc . Stopped all not going to take any. Grade 0, DCIS in situ. 79 rather have quality of life than quantity. Low chance of reoccurrence. Going to take my chances. Good luck

December 2, 2025
MyBCTeam

What are the side effects of exemestane?

Exemestane is an aromatase inhibitor that can cause several side effects. The most common ones include bone, joint, and muscle pain, which can be severe enough that some people stop taking the medication.

Other typical side effects include
* Headache
* Dizziness or weakness
* Show Full Answer

What are the side effects of exemestane?

Exemestane is an aromatase inhibitor that can cause several side effects. The most common ones include bone, joint, and muscle pain, which can be severe enough that some people stop taking the medication.

Other typical side effects include:
* Headache
* Dizziness or weakness
* Flu-like symptoms
* Digestive changes like constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and loss of appetite

Exemestane can also weaken your bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. This happens because aromatase inhibitors lower estrogen levels, which affects bone density.

Joint stiffness and sore, weak muscles may develop, particularly affecting the hands, knees, back, hips, and shoulders. This is called aromatase inhibitor-induced musculoskeletal symptoms (AIMSS).

If you experience severe side effects, talk to your doctor. They may adjust your treatment or suggest ways to manage symptoms more effectively.

December 2, 2025

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