In a nutshell
This study examined overall survival rates following treatment with different dosages of fulvestrant (Faslodex) in patients with recurrent or metastatic estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
Some background
Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancers are dependent on the hormone estrogen for continued growth and spread. Therefore fulvestrant (Faslodex), an anti-estrogen agent, is often employed in the treatment of women with ER+ breast cancer that has progressed despite previous anti-estrogen therapy. This final analysis of a recent clinical trial examined overall survival among women randomized to receive different dosages of fulvestrant.
Methods & findings
736 postmenopausal women with recurrent or metastatic ER+ breast cancer and previously treated with hormone therapy were randomized to receive either 250mg or 500mg doses of once weekly fulvestrant. At the time of final survival analysis, average overall survival was 26.4 months for women treated with fulvestrant 500mg and 22.3 months for those treated with fulvestrant 250mg. Researchers concluded that the risk of mortality was reduced by 19% among patients receiving higher doses of fulvestrant. The rate of serious adverse events was overall low and similar between the two treatment groups.
The bottom line
This study concluded that a 500mg dose of fulvestrant is well-tolerated and associated with longer overall survival compared to lower therapeutic doses.
The fine print
This study was funded by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturers of fulvestrant (Faslodex).
Published By :
Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI)
Date :
Dec 07, 2013
