Specialized tests are typically performed on breast tissue obtained by a biopsy to determine whether or not the breast tumor is “hormone receptor- positive” or “hormone receptor-negative.” If it is found to be “hormone receptor-positive” therapies that inhibit the body’s ability to make estrogen, also referred as an estrogen inhibitor, are typically used to treat that particular form of breast cancer.
There are three different classes or types of estrogen inhibitors used to treat “hormone receptor-positive” breast cancer. These Include:
Aromatase Inhibitors: These therapies are typically given to women who have already gone through menopause because they actually are not able to stop the ovaries from making estrogen. Aromatase inhibitor therapies work by preventing the body from making estradiol, a form of estrogen. Arimidex (anastrazole), Aromasin (exemestane) and Femara (letrozole) are three types of aromatase inhibitors used to treat breast cancer. One significant side effect from these medications is the development of bone loss, which increases a woman’s chance of breaking a bone.
Tamoxifen: Used for more than 30 years to treat breast cancer, tamoxifen is given orally to block the activity of estrogen. Tamoxifen is used to treat women who are diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer as well as in women who have metastatic disease, meaning the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as the bone, liver or lung. Research also has shown that tamoxifen helps prevent the recurrence of breast cancer and helps to prevent the development of breast cancer in women who are at high-risk of developing the disease.
LH-RH Agonists: These types of drugs, which are given by injection, include therapies such as leuprolide and goserelin. These therapies work to prevent the ovaries from making estrogen.
The information provided on Breastcancer.co is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of Breastcancer.co nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
SupportGroups.com provides a support network for those dealing with breast cancer and other types of cancer as well as many other life challenges. Click on the following links to get the support in a confidential, caring environment.
