Aromatase vs. Raloxifene

[O'D]

Background: My wife diagnosed 22 Dec '05---56 yrs old, Post Men.,IDC,1.4cm tumor(20% of which was DCIS, No LVSI, Grade 3, ER/PR + , node-, lumpectomy. Currently half way thru taking A/C Chemo--dose dense every 2 weeks (total of 4 cycles). Confused as to the "So What" of the recently announced STAR Study. Understand the comparison between Raloxifene -- Tamoxifen do not understand where Armitex or other Aromatase inhibitors fit into the picture.  i.e any comparision between efficacy of Raloxifene versus Armidex?   Our current plan is to go to Armidex for 5 years following chemo--radiation.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear O'D:  The STAR trial compared tamoxifen and raloxifene for the prevention of breast cancer in women who were at high risk for developing breast cancer.  These women had not been diagnosed with cancer.  Raloxifene has been found, in this population, to be as effective as tamoxifen for prevention with fewer side effects.  As for women who have hormone positive breast cancer diagnosed, the research shows that aromatase inhibitors (such as arimidex) may be superior to tamoxifen in post menopausal women.  Aromatase inhibitors are not currently indicated for use in women who have not had breast cancer. Similarly, Raloxifene has no established role in the treatment of breast cancer.

[Marian1200]

A related discussion, Raloxifene vs. Tamoxifene was started.

[O'D]

Really appreciate the easy to understand explaination.  No impact to current plan of 5 years of AI post chemo/radiation.  Thanks so very much for what you do for all us.



O'D