Chemotherapy for breast cancer often involves a combination of drugs. These combinations are used to increase the effectiveness of treatment by attacking cancer cells in different ways. Below are some common drug combinations used in the treatment of breast cancer:
- AC: includes Adriamycin (doxorubicin) and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide).
- CMF: includes Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), methotrexate, and fluorouracil (5-FU).
- TAC: includes Taxotere (docetaxel), Adriamycin (doxorubicin), and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide).
- FAC: includes fluorouracil (5-FU), Adriamycin (doxorubicin), and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide).
- TC: includes Taxotere (docetaxel) and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide).
- ACT: includes Adriamycin (doxorubicin), Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), and Taxol (paclitaxel).
- AC-T: includes Adriamycin (doxorubicin) and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), followed by Taxol (paclitaxel).
- TCH: includes Taxotere (docetaxel), carboplatin, and Herceptin (trastuzumab) often used for HER2-positive breast cancers.
- THP: includes Taxol (paclitaxel), Herceptin (trastuzumab), and Perjeta (pertuzumab) often used for HER2-positive breast cancers.
The choice of chemotherapy regimen depends on several factors, including the type and stage of breast cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the patient’s personal preferences. The potential benefits of each regimen must be weighed against the potential side effects. As always, these decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.