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Role of aromatase inhibitors in advanced breast cancer

A U Buzdar1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson University Cancer Center, Houston 77030, USA.

Endocrine-Related Cancer
|March 24, 2000
PubMed

Insights

New non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors like anastrozole and letrozole offer improved efficacy and tolerability for postmenopausal breast cancer. They are becoming standard second-line treatments, with ongoing trials exploring their adjuvant and first-line use.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Non-steroidal aromatase inhibitors (NSAIs) are crucial for treating advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
  • Anastrozole and letrozole demonstrate superior efficacy and tolerability compared to earlier agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current status and future potential of new-generation aromatase inhibitors in breast cancer therapy.
  • To highlight the advantages of anastrozole and letrozole as second-line treatments for postmenopausal women with advanced disease.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current clinical data and ongoing trials for non-steroidal and steroidal aromatase inhibitors.
  • Comparison of efficacy and tolerability of anastrozole and letrozole with previous therapies and tamoxifen.

Main Results:

  • Anastrozole and letrozole are established as preferred second-line therapies for postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer progressing on tamoxifen.
  • Exemestane, a steroidal inhibitor, is under development and may offer an alternative with reduced cross-resistance.

Conclusions:

  • New-generation aromatase inhibitors, particularly anastrozole and letrozole, represent significant advancements in breast cancer treatment for postmenopausal women.
  • Further research, including adjuvant and first-line settings, will define the full potential of these agents.

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