Hormone Therapy For Breast Cancer

Forms of breast cancer that are hormone-receptor-positive require hormonal therapy to reduce the risk of further development or recurrence. Hormone therapy is most often used after surgery, but can be advised at any stage of cancer or treatment. There are several different hormonal therapy medications, and the right one will depend on your unique situation and history.  

Types of Hormonal Therapy Medications

Aromatase Inhibitors

Medications that stop estrogen production after menopause.

• Arimidex
• Aromasin 
• Femara 

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)

Medications that block hormones from attaching to cancer cells.

• Tamoxifen
• Evista
• Fareston 

Selective Estrogen Receptor Degrader (ERDs)

Medication that blocks and damages estrogen receptors.

• Faslodex

Which Medication Is Right For Me?

Your doctor’s recommendation will be based on the following factors:

• breast cancer stage
• menopausal status
• bone density
• arthritis history (if any)
• risk of ovarian cancer
• previous side effects to hormonal therapy

Side Effects

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal discharge or irritation
• Fatigue
• Muscle/joint pain