Medications for Risk Reduction of Breast Cancer in Women
Risk reduction of breast cancer
This supplement was written by William T. Elliott, MD, FACP, Chair, Formulary Committee, Kaiser Permanente, California Division; Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco. In order to reveal any potential bias in this publication, we disclose that Dr. Elliott reports no consultant, stockholder, speaker’s bureau, research, or other financial relationships with companies having ties to this field of study. Questions and comments, call: (404) 262-5404. E-mail: [email protected].
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has published new guidance regarding medications for risk reduction of primary breast cancer in women. The group reviewed evidence on the effectiveness, adverse effects, and subgroup variations of medications to reduce breast cancer, specifically the selective estrogen receptor modulators tamoxifen and raloxifene (Evista). The USPSTF recommends that clinicians engage in shared, informed decision making with women who are at increased risk for breast cancer about medications to reduce the risk. Women who are at increased risk for breast cancer and have a low risk for adverse medication effects should be offered one of the risk-reducing medications (B recommendation). However, the group recommends against the routine use of these medications in women who are not at increased risk of breast cancer. High-risk women are defined as those with a 5-year risk of ≥ 3% based on the National Cancer Institute’s Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (www.cancer.gov/bcrisktool/). Tamoxifen and raloxifene are shown to reduce the risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, but not estrogen receptor-negative cancer, which is more difficult to treat. Tamoxifen is associated with a moderate benefit for breast cancer but a slightly higher risk of endometrial cancer. Raloxifene is associated with a slightly smaller benefit for breast cancer but no risk for endometrial cancer. Both drugs may reduce the risk of nonvertebral fractures with greater benefit for raloxifene. Both drugs also increase the risk of venous thromboembolism with the risk being age-dependent (Ann Intern Med published online September 24, 2013).
Evidence-based updates in clinical pharmacology.
In this issue: USPSTF issues new guidelines for risk reduction of breast cancer; safety of Chantix in patients with depression; polypills for cardiovascular disease; and FDA actions.
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