Understanding Your Breast Cancer Medications: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

This guide will help you understand the various medications used in breast cancer treatment and what to expect during your therapy.

Types of Breast Cancer Medications

1. Hormone Therapy

• Tamoxifen

  • Used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer
  • Taken daily as a pill
  • Common side effects: hot flashes, mood changes

• Aromatase Inhibitors

  • Examples: anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane
  • For postmenopausal women
  • Reduces estrogen production

2. Targeted Therapies

• HER2-Targeted Drugs
  • Trastuzumab (Herceptin)
  • Pertuzumab (Perjeta)
  • Given via infusion

3. Chemotherapy

• Common Regimens
  • AC-T (Adriamycin/Cyclophosphamide followed by Taxol)
  • TC (Taxotere/Cyclophosphamide)
  • Given intravenously on specific schedules

Managing Side Effects

• Take medications as prescribed
• Report new symptoms promptly
• Stay hydrated
• Follow supportive care guidelines

Important Reminders

• Keep all appointments
• Maintain medication diary
• Store medications properly
• Contact healthcare team with concerns