Higher cost means lower adherence to aromatase inhibitors

Women were more likely to discontinue taking aromatase inhibitors if the out-of-pocket costs were higher, a research study suggested.  Generic drugs, which have lower copayments, had higher adherence rates. These data were presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in 2013. The cost of prescription medication may account for a portion of the high discontinuation rate for aromatase inhibitors, which is likely also related to the side effects of these drugs.  For more information, see the article by Michael Smith. And for an alternative view on the need for aromatase inhibitors following breast cancer, see our webpage Questioning aromatase inhibitors.