TAMOXIFEN (Nolvadex) is used for treating breast cancer that has spread to other sites in the body. It is also used along with other medicines to treat other types of breast cancer. It is used in women who are at high risk for breast cancer and in women with DCIS (after surgery and radiation) to decrease the risk of developing breast cancer.
Tamoxifen is an antiestrogen. It works by blocking the effect of estrogen on certain tumors. This may prevent the growth of tumors that are activated by estrogen.
Tamoxifen is an orally active selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It is used to breast cancer. Tamoxifen belongs to antiestrogens. It prevents the growth of tumors by blockin the effect of estrogen on certain tumors.
Tell your doctor if any of these apply to you:
pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
an unusual or allergic reaction to Tamoxifen, other medicines, foods, dyes, preservatives, or other substances
irregular menstrual cycles
blood clots
high cholesterol
blood disorders
high calcium levels
cataracts or impaired eyesight
endometriosis, uterine fibroids
How to use:
Strictly follow your doctor's instructions
Follow the directions on the prescription label
Take your doses at regular intervals
Do not stop taking Tamoxifen until you are told so by your doctor
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can
Avoid taking double or extra doses
Safety issues:
Visit your doctor regularly for checks on your progress.
Tell your doctor if you are going to have surgery.
What medicines may interact with Tamoxifen?
warfarin
aminogluthemide
rifampin
bosentan
nevirapine
bromocriptine
protease inhibitors
chemotherapy drugs
estrogen hormones, including some birth control products
cyclosporine
efavirenz
delavirdine
dietary supplements like black cohosh, chasteberry, melatonin, or soy isoflavones
Possible side effects:
If you experience these side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately:
yellowing of the eyes or skin
changes in your menstrual cycle
vaginal bleeding
weakness
changes in vaginal discharge
unusual bruising or bleeding
changes in vision
sudden chest pain
confusion
swelling of the lips, face, or tongue
difficulty walking or talking
swelling, pain, or tenderness in your calf or leg
difficulty breathing
skin rash
excessive thirst
shortness of breath
new breast lumps
redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside mouth
numbness
pelvic pain or pressure
These side effects usually don't require medical attention (but you should contact your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
weight loss
bone pain
pain at tumor site
fatigue
nausea, vomiting
headache
impotence
hair loss, aclthough uncommon and is usually mild
hot flashes
What is the shelf life of the pills?
The expiry date is mentioned on each blister. It is different for different batches. The shelf life is 2 years from the date of manufacture and would differ from batch to batch depending on when they were manufactured.
What is a generic pill?
Generic drug (pl. generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without a brand name. A generic must contain the same active ingredients as the original formulation. In most cases, it is considered bioequivalent to the brand name counterpart with respect to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.
