What Is Fulvestrant?

Fulvestrant is also known by the brand name, Faslodex. It is an antineoplastic (anti-cancer) drug that belongs to a class called estrogen receptor antagonists. It is an injectable solution that is used to treat locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal, estrogen receptor-positive women. Fulvestrant is a type of hóa trị.

Hóa trị là gì?

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment in which certain drugs are used to kill cancerous cells. These drugs are usually cytotoxic chemical substances that are toxic to the cells, restrict their growth, prevent their division, and ultimately kill the cells.

Hướng dẫn sử dụng

Fulvestrant may be taken without regard to food. The pre-filled syringe of fulvestrant is supposed to be used for intramuscular injection into the buttocks (gluteal) area only. It should never be administered intravenously, subcutaneously, or intra-arterially. Two pre-filled syringes (250 mg per 5 ml) should be administered, one in each buttock, slowly over 1 to 2 minutes per injection. Do not administer more than 5 ml per buttock.

To prepare each syringe for administration, hold the syringe upright, carefully tilt the syringe cap back and forth (without twisting) until the cap disconnects for removal. Pull the cap off by pulling up without touching the syringe tip (to maintain sterility), attach safety needle to syringe tip, and twist firmly to lock. Remove needle cap by pulling straight off to avoid damaging needlepoint, remove needle sheath and expel excess air from the syringe before administration. Refer to the product labeling for more detailed instructions.

Fulvestrant is initially given as 500 mg on days 1, 15, and 29, and then dosed 500 mg once every 4 weeks for maintenance. The dose is dependent on the cancer type and severity. Verify the correct dose and frequency with your provider. The dose should not be more or less than what is prescribed.