Patient Handout: Elacestrant (Orserdu)

What is Elacestrant?

Elacestrant, sold under the brand name Orserdu, is a medication used to treat HR-positive (hormone receptor-positive), HER2-negative breast cancer in adults. It is specifically used for metastatic (advanced) breast cancer or for cancer that has progressed after previous treatment. Elacestrant is an oral medication that works by targeting the estrogen receptor, which can drive the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.

Elacestrant is used in patients whose cancer is no longer responding to standard hormone therapies such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors.

How Does Elacestrant Work?

Elacestrant is classified as an estrogen receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the action of estrogen on breast cancer cells. Estrogen can stimulate the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells, so by blocking estrogen from binding to its receptor, elacestrant helps to slow down or stop cancer cell growth.

How is Elacestrant Taken?

• Form: Elacestrant is taken as a pill (oral medication).
• Dosage: Your doctor will determine the correct dosage for you, which is usually 400 mg once daily.
• Administration: Take elacestrant once a day with or without food. It is important to take it at the same time each day to help remember.
• Swallowing the Pill: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

Possible Side Effects

Elacestrant can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some side effects may be serious, and you should contact your healthcare provider if you notice any new or unusual symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea: You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit. Eating smaller meals throughout the day may help manage this.
• Fatigue: Many people experience tiredness or weakness. Let your doctor know if it interferes with your daily activities.
• Hot Flashes: Some women may experience hot flashes or flushing, a common symptom in hormone therapy.
• Diarrhea: Elacestrant can cause diarrhea. Staying hydrated and eating a bland diet may help.
• Headache: Headaches are common, but they are usually temporary. If they persist, talk to your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Problems: Elacestrant can affect your liver. Symptoms of liver problems include yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pain in the upper right side of your abdomen. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Blood Clots: Though rare, elacestrant may increase the risk of blood clots. If you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in your leg, seek immediate medical help.
• Severe Nausea or Vomiting: If you experience severe or persistent nausea or vomiting, contact your doctor.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, though rare, may occur. Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Precautions Before Taking Elacestrant

Before starting elacestrant, inform your healthcare provider if you:

• Have Liver Disease: Elacestrant is metabolized by the liver, so any existing liver problems may require dose adjustments or close monitoring.
• Are Pregnant or Planning to Become Pregnant: Elacestrant can harm an unborn baby. It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment.
• Have a History of Blood Clots: Elacestrant may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in people with a history of blood clotting disorders or who are currently using medications that increase clotting risk.
• Other Medications: Let your healthcare provider know about any other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with elacestrant and affect how it works.

What to Avoid While Taking Elacestrant

• Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as they may interact with elacestrant and affect how it works in your body.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
• Other Medications: Some medications may interact with elacestrant and reduce its effectiveness or increase side effects. Discuss all current medications with your doctor before starting treatment.

Regular Monitoring

While taking elacestrant, your doctor will monitor your health regularly to check for side effects. This may include:

• Liver function tests: Your doctor will check your liver function through regular blood tests to monitor for any liver-related issues.
• Blood tests: You may have regular blood tests to check for changes in your blood counts or other indicators of how your body is responding to the medication.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Call your doctor or seek immediate medical help if you experience:

• Liver symptoms: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or upper right-side abdominal pain.
• Signs of a blood clot: Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in the leg.
• Severe gastrointestinal symptoms: Persistent or severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Allergic reaction: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or a rash.

Disclaimer:

This handout is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding treatment and care. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.