Editorial Review: Tamoxifen – Oral, Nolvadex, Soltamox
WARNING: Tamoxifen can rarely cause serious strokes, blood clots in the lungs/legs, and uterine cancer. Discuss the benefits and risks of taking this medication with your doctor.
USES: Tamoxifen is used to treat metastatic breast cancer, breast cancer after surgery and radiation therapy, and to reduce the chances of breast cancer in high-risk patients. It blocks the growth of breast cancer by interfering with the effects of estrogen in breast tissue.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before starting tamoxifen. Take this medication by mouth once or twice daily for 5 years, or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use it regularly at the same time(s) each day. If you have breast cancer that has spread, you may experience increased pain as you start taking tamoxifen. Report these symptoms to your doctor. Pregnant women should not handle this medication.
SIDE EFFECTS: Hot flashes, nausea, leg cramps, hair thinning, headache, and numb/tingling skin may occur. Loss of sexual ability/interest may occur in men. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Serious side effects include vision changes, eye pain, easy bruising/bleeding, mental/mood changes, swelling, and unusual tiredness. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction or serious side effects. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
PRECAUTIONS: Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking tamoxifen. It may not be suitable if you have certain medical conditions. Tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have high cholesterol/triglycerides, limited mobility, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, cataracts, or liver disease. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Use two non-hormonal forms of birth control while taking this medication and for 2 months after stopping.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you use, especially blood thinners, estrogens, hormonal forms of birth control, phenobarbital, rifamycins, and St. John’s wort. Other medications may affect how tamoxifen works. This document does not include all possible interactions.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include shaking, unsteady walking, fainting, and irregular heartbeat.
NOTES: Regular medical tests should be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.
Report Problems to the FDA: Report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. It is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication or changing any treatment.
