Fulvestrant: An In-Depth Medication Profile
Summary or Key Points
Fulvestrant is a medication primarily used to treat hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women. As an estrogen receptor antagonist, it works by blocking the effects of estrogen on cancer cells. Although generally effective, it has potential side effects and contraindications. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, available through our telemedicine service, to ensure this medication is suitable for your specific situation.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Faslodex (Fulvestrant)
The term ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name of the drug’s active ingredient. In this case, Fulvestrant is the generic name, listed in parentheses after the brand name Faslodex.
Pharmacologic Category
Fulvestrant falls within the class of drugs known as Estrogen Receptor Antagonists.
Dosing
Fulvestrant is indicated for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The recommended dose is 500 mg, administered intramuscularly into the buttocks, on days 1, 15, 29, and then once monthly thereafter. Always remember to consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. You can schedule an immediate consultation with our telemedicine service for personalized advice.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Fulvestrant is available in a pre-filled syringe containing 250 mg/5 mL solution for intramuscular injection.
Administration Instructions
Fulvestrant is administered by healthcare professionals. It is injected slowly into the muscle of your buttock. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions for treatment.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
Common side effects include injection site pain, nausea, and fatigue. More severe but less frequent side effects include liver enzyme elevations, thrombocytopenia, and hot flashes. It’s important to seek immediate medical help if you experience any severe side effects. Contact our telemedicine providers if you need assistance.
Contraindications
Contraindications are conditions or factors where a certain medication should not be used because it may be harmful. Fulvestrant is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. Additionally, it should not be used in patients with thromboembolic disorders due to the risk of clot formation.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Some drugs that may interact with Fulvestrant include Coumadin (Warfarin) and Tagamet (Cimetidine). Always consult your healthcare provider for a comprehensive list of drug interactions.
Fulvestrant in Pregnancy
Fulvestrant is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus. It is important to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication when pregnant.
Fulvestrant while Breastfeeding
It is not known whether Fulvestrant passes into breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding while using this medication is not recommended. Always discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Fulvest
of Fulvestrant without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is around $2000-$2300. Prices may vary based on location and pharmacy.
Possible Alternatives
Alternatives for treating hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer include aromatase inhibitors like Letrozole (Femara), and Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators like Tamoxifen (Nolvadex). Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and reducing alcohol consumption can also support overall health. Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist you right away with these discussions.
Recent Updates on Fulvestrant Research
Recent research is exploring the potential benefits of combining Fulvestrant with other treatments, such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, to enhance its effectiveness against breast cancer. However, these are still under investigation and not yet standard treatment. Always discuss with your healthcare provider for the most up-to-date treatment options. You can schedule a consultation with our telemedicine providers to learn more.
Note: This information is current as of the last update on May 1, 2023. For the most up-to-date information, consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.