The PBS restriction for two aromatase inhibitors, exemestane and letrozole, was extended on 1 December 2006 to include adjuvant treatment of hormone-dependent early breast cancer in postmenopausal women. These drugs were previously listed as restricted benefits for advanced breast cancer only — the new listings bring them into line with anastrozole (Arimidex), which is also available on the PBS for early breast cancer [refer to the NPS RADAR review "Anastrozole (Arimidex) for the treatment of hormone-dependent early breast cancer in postmenopausal women" (December 2005 issue)].
Exemestane may be prescribed on the PBS for hormone-dependent early breast cancer after a minimum of 2 years' treatment with tamoxifen. Letrozole may be prescribed as initial adjuvant hormonal treatment or be started after 2-3 years of tamoxifen.1 The total duration of PBS-subsidised adjuvant hormonal treatment with an aromatase inhibitor (or with tamoxifen followed by an aromatase inhibitor) should not exceed 5 years.
Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the time of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice and should not be exclusively relied on to manage or diagnose a medical condition. NPS MedicineWise disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer. This website uses cookies. Read our privacy policy.
