Pink October: understand and avoid drug interactions in breast cancer

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Amazonas has an estimated 28.34 cases of breast cancer per 100 thousand people

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Brazil, after non-melanoma skin cancer. In 2023, it is estimated that there will be 73,610 new cases of the disease in the country, which represents an adjusted incidence rate of 41.89 cases per 100,000 women. Amazonas has an estimated 28.34 cases of breast cancer per 100,000 people this year, according to the National Cancer Institute (Inca).
Breast cancer treatment depends on the stage and biological characteristics of the tumor, and may involve surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy. It turns out that many women with the disease also suffer from other health conditions that require the use of medications, and it is essential to understand when the use of certain drugs can affect the effectiveness of cancer treatment.
In this context, in the month dedicated to breast cancer awareness, the Pink October campaign not only highlights the importance of prevention and early diagnosis, but also sheds light on a crucial aspect of treatment: drug interactions.
It is in this scenario that drugstore pharmacists play a vital role. These highly trained professionals are a valuable source of information about medications. “When a patient with breast cancer receives a new prescription, the pharmacist can provide guidance on how to take the medicine, possible side effects and, most importantly, warn about possible interactions with other drugs”, explains the pharmaceutical supervisor of the Santo Remédio chain. , Maria Eliza Pinheiro.

What are drug interactions
Drug interactions occur when two or more medications interact in a way that changes the way one of them acts in the body. This can result in unwanted side effects, decreased treatment effectiveness, or even serious health risks. In patients with breast cancer, where the precision and effectiveness of treatment are fundamental, avoiding drug interactions is of paramount importance.
A common example of a drug interaction that breast cancer patients may experience involves aromatase inhibitors, a class of medications often used to treat hormone-positive breast cancers. These medications can interact with other drugs, such as some antidepressants, antifungals and blood pressure medications, affecting their effectiveness.
“Tamoxifen, one of the main drugs used in hormone therapy for breast cancer, can have its action reduced or nullified by some antidepressants, such as fluoxetine and paroxetine, which inhibit an enzyme responsible for activating tamoxifen in the body”, informs the specialist. .
She also points out that cyclophosphamide, another common chemotherapy drug for breast cancer, may have its effectiveness reduced by drugs that increase the activity of an enzyme called CYP2B6, such as rifampicin (used to treat tuberculosis), phenytoin (used to treat tuberculosis), epilepsy) and efavirenz (used to treat AIDS). Additionally, cyclophosphamide can interact with alcohol, increasing the risk of bleeding and infection.

Medication safely
By turning to drugstore pharmacists, patients can rest assured that they are taking their medications safely and effectively. It is essential that patients disclose all medications they are using, including supplements and over-the-counter products, so that the pharmacist can make complete assessments of possible interactions.
Additionally, patients should maintain open communication with their doctors. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, it is important to discuss them with the healthcare professional responsible for your breast cancer treatment. Teamwork between doctors and pharmacists is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatment.
Therefore, this Pink October, a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness and prevention, it is worth highlighting that health care is not limited to early diagnosis and adequate treatment of the disease. It is also necessary to be aware of factors that can interfere with the effectiveness and safety of the treatment, such as drug interactions, and have the support of qualified professionals, such as pharmacists, to guarantee the best possible result.

*With information from consultancy

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