Which drug is commonly prescribed for treating estrogen receptor positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women?

Letrozole is prescribed for treating estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors, which work by reducing estrogen production in the body, thereby slowing the growth of hormone-dependent tumors.

Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that is frequently utilized in premenopausal women but can also be used in postmenopausal women depending on the clinical scenario. However, it is not as commonly the first line of treatment in postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer compared to aromatase inhibitors like letrozole.

Anastrozole and exemestane are also aromatase inhibitors and similarly effective for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, but letrozole is often highlighted for its strong evidence base for this specific patient population.

In summary, letrozole is a key treatment option for managing estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, aligning with current therapeutic guidelines and practices.