Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: tamoxifen
BRAND NAME: Nolvadex
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Tamoxifen is an antiestrogen
(blocks
the effect of estrogen on tissue). The precise mechanism of its
action is
unknown, but one possible mechanism is that it binds and blocks estrogen receptors on the surface of cells, preventing estrogens from
binding and activating the cell. It is used in patients for treating and
preventing breast cancer. Controversy
currently exists
as to which breast cancer patients will benefit from this
treatment.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PREPARATIONS: 10mg oral tablets.
STORAGE: Store in a dry place at 15-30°C (59-86°F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Tamoxifen is used for the treatment of
invasive breast
cancer, the most common type of breast cancer, following surgery and/or radiation and for preventing invasive breast cancer in women at high risk for developing it. Tamoxifen also is used for the treatment of women following surgery and radiation for a less common type of breast cancer called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS or intraductal carcinoma). Women who have had ductal carcinoma in situ are at high risk for developing invasive breast cancer at a later date, and tamoxifen prevents development of the invasive cancer in almost half of the women during the first five years of treatment. Occasionally, tamoxifen is used to stimulate ovulation.
DOSING: Tamoxifen should be taken at doses specifically
directed
by the physician. Currently, long term dosing is recommended (in
excess of
2 years). Tamoxifen can be taken with food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tamoxifen can
cause
abnormalities of liver tests and other blood tests, and patients taking it should keep
appointments for blood work to monitor for these side effects. Patients should report
any suspected
side effects immediately, especially bleeding and yellowing of
the skin.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects associated
with
tamoxifen are: hot flashes, weight gain, abnormal menstrual
periods, and
nausea.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 7/4/2000
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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