Managing the side effects of oral aromatase inhibitors. (July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lintermans, Anneleen; Brouckaert, Olivier; Neven, Patrick
• Is Part Of: Breast cancer management. Volume 1:Number 2(2012)
• Page Start: 165
• Page End: 173
• Publication Date: 2012-07
• Subjects: Breast -- Cancer -- Periodicals; Breast -- Cancer -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.9944905
• DOI: 10.2217/bmt.12.27
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-1923

Abstract

SUMMARY Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are increasingly being used to treat postmenopausal estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. In the short term they enhance or induce menopausal symptoms that compromise AI adherence, while in the long-term they adversely affect bone and probably also cardiovascular health, although this is mainly when compared to tamoxifen, which is cardioprotective. The distinct decrease in estrogen levels following AI administration is believed to be the main reason for the emergence of these side effects, although exact mechanisms remain to be elucidated. As such, management strategies to meet these AI-induced toxicities are still mainly symptomatic. In this review, current treatment options and promising new modalities under research will be discussed.