Tamoxifen vs. Raloxifene for Breast Cancer Chemoprophylaxis: Longer-Term Data

Raloxifene was less toxic; tamoxifen was slightly more effective.

The selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs) tamoxifen and raloxifene are approved for breast cancer prevention in women at high risk for the disease. In 2006, the STAR trial of tamoxifen (20 mg daily) versus raloxifene (60 mg daily) in high-risk postmenopausal women showed that incidence of invasive breast cancer was similar with both agents; however, raloxifene was less effective than tamoxifen in lowering risk for ductal carcinoma in situ (mean follow-up, 47 months; JW Womens Health Jul 13 2006). Now, a STAR trial update (mean follow-up, 81 months) provides additional insights about the safety and efficacy of these agents.

Raloxifene was modestly less effective than tamoxifen in preventing breast cancer. Among 9754 women who receive…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Tamoxifen vs. Raloxifene for Breast Cancer Chemoprophylaxis: Longer-Term Data

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Reviewing Author