Oral SERDs show promise in hormone-receptor positive breast cancer, offering alternative to injections

Oral selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs) are being positioned as a new approach for metastatic hormone-receptor positive breast cancer because they can break down the estrogen receptor and address resistance linked to ESR1 mutations.

The SERENA-6 trial reported a progression-free survival advantage when patients switched to an oral SERD at the first sign of molecular progression, though regulators and clinicians are still debating whether to change therapy before radiographic disease is evident.

Patient choice is a key factor in adopting oral SERDs, as many prefer pills to intramuscular injections such as fulvestrant, which can be uncomfortable and impact quality of life.