Compare Arimidex vs. Aromasin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

Aromasin (exemestane)

Prescription only

Treats breast cancer in postmenopausal women

Arimidex (anastrozole) is one of the first-line treatments for breast cancer that helps improve survival rates, but it is used only in post-menopausal women.

Treats breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Aromasin (exemestane) treats advanced breast cancer in post-menopausal women and helps lower their chances of the cancer coming back or spreading to the other breast. However, the overall survival rates for women who take Aromasin (exemestane) is the same as another treatment option, specifically Novaldex.

Upsides

Available as a pill unlike some chemotherapies.
Can be used safely and effectively even in those with kidney or liver problems.
Available as a generic version
Can be used as first line or second line hormone therapy for certain advanced breast cancers.

Unlike other chemotherapies, Aromasin (exemestane) comes as a pill.
Can be used safely and effectively by those with kidney or liver problems.
It is available as a generic pill.
Financial assistance is available if you have trouble affording this medication.
Aromasin (exemestane) works a little differently from other hormone therapies. If you are having difficulty with other hormone therapies, your doctor may suggest Aromasin (exemestane).

Downsides

Arimidex (anastrozole) can cause serious allergic reactions, such as rash, hives, tightness in the chest or throat, and trouble breathing.
You will have to get your blood drawn regularly while on Arimidex (anastrozole).
Unlike other chemotherapies, Arimidex (anastrozole) reduces the amount of estrogen in your body, which can lead to weaker bones and other symptoms typically only seen in postmenopausal women.

Aromasin (exemestane) can cause serious allergic reactions.
Some people may not be able to tolerate the bone pain and body aches from Aromasin (exemestane).
Aromasin (exemestane) reduces the amount of estrogen in your body which can lead to weaker bones and other symptoms typically only seen in postmenopausal women.
Although Aromasin (exemestane) is available as a generic, it can be more expensive than similar hormone therapies.
Aromasin (exemestane) is only approved for use after tamoxifen therapy.

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