Wonder drug for breast cancer affects bone density

Prolonged consumption of Exemestane — often touted as a ‘wonder drug’ for breast cancer — has been found to have adverse effects on the bone density in menopausal women, a recent report in The Lancet says. Exemestane is commonly used by oncologists to treat breast cancer cases but doctors have underlined the importance of necessary tests before prescribing the medicine to older women.

“Exemestane is one of the very few prescribed cancer drugs; hence, the choice is limited. However, a baseline check of bone condition is routinely performed before prescription, especially if the patient is above 40. If the bone condition is already weak, then along with the medicine we prescribe vitamin D and calcium supplements,” says Dr Arun Behl, oncologist at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital.

As many as 4,500 women in their 60s were surveyed over two years as part of the study conducted by researchers at the University Health Network in Toronto.

The results showed that while the level of breat cancer decreased by two-thirds after two years, the bone density also came down by three times compared to those who did not consume Exemestane.

The drug is a kind of aromatose inhibitor that blocks the production of estrogen, causing decrease in bone density. Loss in bone density leads to brittle bones, which in turn make the patient susceptible to fractures and osteoporosis.

Some experts said it was an understood risk that comes with fighting cancer.

“Exemestane is prescribed for daily consumption over five years. Cancer drugs are bound to have some level of side-effect, and loss of bone density is one of them. Doctors therefore need to check patient condition before prescription. Also, the patients must be sufficiently informed about the possible side-effects,” says Dr Adwait Gore, oncologist at Kohinoor Hospital.

The latest AIIMS figures show that one in every 22 women in India suffer from breast cancer. Pfizer, the manufacturer of the drug, has refused to comment on the research results, saying the investigators of the study would be the most appropriate people to do so.

source: indianexpress