Improving Patient Tolerability: Elinzanetant in Breast Cancer Care

EP: 1.Lead Investigator Insights on Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy Landscape

EP: 2.Navigating Vasomotor Symptoms From Endocrine Therapy in Breast Cancer Treatment

EP: 3.How New Pathways Are Easing Vasomotor Symptoms in Breast Cancer Care

EP: 4.OASIS-4 in Focus: Lead Investigator Reviews Trial Design

EP: 5.Rapid Relief: Quality-of-Life Improvements Observed in Recent VMS Trials

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EP: 6.Improving Patient Tolerability: Elinzanetant in Breast Cancer Care

Effectively managing adverse effects associated with endocrine therapy is crucial, as it directly influences patients’ ability and willingness to adhere to long-term treatment. Nonadherence remains a significant issue in breast cancer care, with data indicating that roughly 25% to 30% of patients discontinue endocrine therapy, often without informing their medical team. In some cases, the rate of discontinuation can climb to as high as 60%. The likelihood of stopping treatment tends to increase over time, with notable drops in adherence after the second and third years and even higher rates of nonadherence by the fifth year.

This pattern poses a serious risk, as endocrine therapy is only effective when taken consistently. A patient not completing the recommended duration of therapy faces a higher chance of relapse and decreased survival. Therefore, improving the tolerability of this treatment is not a minor concern—it is a fundamental part of improving long-term outcomes. Patients who are able to manage adverse effects more comfortably are more likely to complete the full course of therapy, gaining the protective benefit it offers against breast cancer recurrence.

Recent findings from trials of new nonhormonal treatments for vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes, provide promising support in this context. By alleviating these symptoms—as well as related sleep disturbances and impacts on quality of life—these therapies may indirectly improve adherence to endocrine therapy. If patients are more comfortable and less burdened by adverse effects, they are more likely to continue with treatment as prescribed. This improved adherence has the potential to enhance overall survival and reduce recurrence risk, reinforcing the importance of supportive care strategies in long-term breast cancer management.