Hormone therapy reduces estrogen levels or blocks the action of estrogen in breast cancer. It is a common therapy used after surgery and chemotherapy (if given) that significantly reduces the chance of breast cancer recurrence.
It also can be used to help control metastatic breast cancer. Following surgery and after the pathologist has analyzed your tumor cells, your medical team will consider the need for hormone therapy. If they recommend hormone therapy, your medical oncologist will prescribe and manage your care. Patients usually tolerate hormone therapy well.