What a journey you've been on since January — and it sounds like you've been really proactive about your treatment, even when it's been tough. It's completely understandable to feel hesitant before starting a third hormonal therapy.
Exemestane (Aromasin) is an aromatase inhibitor, similar to letrozole, but with a slightly Show Full Answer
What a journey you've been on since January — and it sounds like you've been really proactive about your treatment, even when it's been tough. It's completely understandable to feel hesitant before starting a third hormonal therapy.
Exemestane (Aromasin) is an aromatase inhibitor, similar to letrozole, but with a slightly different chemical structure. Some people who don't tolerate one aromatase inhibitor find they do better on another, so it's worth trying.
Common side effects to be aware of include:
- Joint and muscle pain — one of the most frequently reported
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Fatigue
- Bone density loss — your doctor should monitor this with regular DEXA scans
- Mood changes
The good news is that many MyBCTeam members report that side effects from hormonal therapies can ease over time. One MyBCTeam member shared that after about 4–6 months on letrozole, their body adjusted and side effects became more manageable with daily exercise and stretching. It's really important to weigh the side effects against the benefit — hormonal therapy significantly reduces the risk of recurrence in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, and oncologists typically recommend staying on it for at least five years.
A few tips that may help if you do start exemestane:
- Stay active — gentle exercise can help with joint pain and bone health
- Eat well — a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods supports your body through treatment
- Stay hydrated — this supports how your body processes medications
- Talk to your oncologist — if side effects become difficult, there may be ways to manage them
Ultimately, this is a conversation worth having openly with your care team. They know your full history and can help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your specific situation. You're not alone in finding this decision hard — it's a lot to navigate! 💛
July 8
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