Xtane

Product Overview

Xtane is an oral medication containing Exemestane (25 mg) designed for postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer. As a potent aromatase inhibitor, it effectively reduces estrogen levels in the body – a crucial mechanism for controlling hormone receptor-positive breast cancer growth. Xtane provides targeted therapy by specifically inhibiting estrogen production while maintaining minimal interference with other hormonal pathways. This makes it a preferred treatment option when initial therapies like tamoxifen prove ineffective. The medication offers both clinical efficacy and manageable treatment parameters for patients requiring long-term breast cancer management.

Uses

Xtane is indicated for hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It serves as both first-line treatment and secondary therapy when cancer progresses despite other hormonal treatments. By systematically lowering estrogen synthesis, Xtane effectively slows the proliferation of estrogen-dependent cancer cells. Its targeted action makes it particularly valuable for patients who have completed 2-3 years of tamoxifen therapy, as it provides an alternative mechanism for estrogen suppression. The medication’s specificity for aromatase inhibition ensures optimal therapeutic outcomes in estrogen-sensitive malignancies.

How to Use

For optimal therapeutic results:
• Take one 25 mg tablet daily after a meal to enhance absorption and minimize GI discomfort
• Swallow whole with water – do not crush, chew, or break the tablet
• Maintain consistent dosing times to ensure stable blood concentrations
• If a dose is missed, take it immediately unless nearing the next scheduled dose
• Never compensate for missed doses by doubling the next dose
• Continue treatment as prescribed unless directed otherwise by your oncologist

Mechanism of Action

Xtane exerts its therapeutic effect through irreversible aromatase inhibition. The active compound, Exemestane, permanently binds to the aromatase enzyme responsible for converting androgens to estrogens in peripheral tissues. This action is particularly crucial in postmenopausal women, where ovarian estrogen production has ceased and peripheral aromatization becomes the primary estrogen source. By achieving >90% estrogen suppression, Xtane creates an unfavorable environment for estrogen-dependent tumor growth while maintaining selectivity that preserves other steroidogenic pathways.

Dosage and Administration

The established therapeutic regimen consists of:
• 25 mg once daily (one tablet)
• Preferably taken with food to optimize pharmacokinetics
• Continuous daily dosing without treatment breaks
• No requirement for dose adjustment in elderly patients
• Hepatic impairment may require monitoring (no initial dose adjustment)
• Renal impairment (CrCl ≥25 mL/min) doesn’t necessitate dose modification

Therapeutic Advantages

• Superior estrogen suppression compared to selective estrogen receptor modulators
• Demonstrated efficacy in tamoxifen-resistant cases
• Favorable safety profile with manageable side effects
• Once-daily dosing enhances treatment adherence
• Proven survival benefits in adjuvant and metastatic settings

Adverse Effects

The most frequently reported adverse reactions (≥10%) include:
• Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes)
• Musculoskeletal pain/arthralgia
• Fatigue
• Mild gastrointestinal disturbances
Less common but clinically significant effects may include:
• Osteoporosis (long-term use)
• Mild elevation of liver enzymes
• Headache
• Increased sweating

Clinical Considerations

Patients should be monitored for:
• Bone mineral density (baseline and periodic DEXA scans recommended)
• Lipid profiles (potential for modest increases in cholesterol)
• Hepatic function (particularly in pre-existing liver conditions)
• Vitamin D and calcium supplementation should be considered
• Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers may reduce efficacy

Important Safety Information

• Contraindicated in premenopausal women and during pregnancy/lactation
• Absolute contraindication in patients with known hypersensitivity to Exemestane
• Caution required in patients with osteoporosis or high fracture risk
• Potential interactions with estrogen-containing products and potent CYP3A4 inducers
• Avoid concomitant use with grapefruit products

Storage Conditions

• Maintain at controlled room temperature (20-25°C)
• Protect from moisture and light
• Keep in original packaging until use
• Store in secure location away from children
• Properly dispose of expired medication per local regulations

Medical Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. While we strive for accuracy, the content represents general information that may not reflect individual health circumstances. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or treatment. The provided information supplements but does not replace professional medical judgment. Patients should discuss all treatment options, potential risks, and monitoring requirements with their treating physician before initiating therapy.