Which targeted therapy is used alongside aromatase inhibitors?

Everolimus (Afinitor) is a targeted therapy that is used alongside aromatase inhibitors, particularly in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer that is advanced or metastatic. The mechanism of action for everolimus involves inhibiting mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), a protein that plays a key role in cell growth and proliferation. By blocking this pathway, everolimus can enhance the effectiveness of aromatase inhibitors by counteracting potential resistance mechanisms that may develop during treatment.

Aromatase inhibitors, such as letrozole, work by reducing estrogen levels in the body, which is important for hormone receptor-positive cancers. However, some tumors may adapt by activating alternative signaling pathways. When everolimus is used in combination with aromatase inhibitors, it can help to overcome resistance and improve outcomes for patients.

In contrast, trastuzumab is primarily used for HER2-positive breast cancers, and raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator, which is not typically combined with aromatase inhibitors in the same context. Letrozole is itself an aromatase inhibitor, so it doesn't fit the definition of a therapy that is used alongside them. Thus, everolimus is the most appropriate choice in