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The data on the use of anastrozole (Arimidex) rather than the traditional tamoxifen for post-menopausal women with breast cancer is now in and shows a definite improvement of the anastrozole, which is a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors (AI). This improvement is even more dramatic in patients with estrogen-sensitive tumors.

The ATAC (Arimidex-Tamoxifen-Alone or in Combination) Trial, a European trial, has suggested for the last year that anastrozole is superior to tamoxifen but at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Conference on December 8, the 42-month data is in and is conclusive.

This new information will make anastrozole the treatment of choice. The question you will have to ask is whether the increased cost (Arimidex is over $200 a month as opposed to the generic tamoxifen of about $25/month).

The data deals with time to recurrence of the cancer and not to overall survival, although the data will continue to be analyzed for several years to determine if there is an improvement in survival.

The ATAC study only dealt with one of the AIs, anastrozole. The data might suggest a similar improvement with the other AIs, but this is not proven and should not necessarily be assumed at this time.

If you are currently post-menopausal and on tamoxifen or another AI, you need to discuss your options with your physician.

To learn more about Presbyterian Cancer Center's resources for breast cancer patients, call 704-384-4750.