Drug Name: Tamoxifen
Brand Names: Nolvadex, Apo-Tamox, Tamofen, Tamone
Generic Name: Tamoxifen Citrate
Uses: Tamoxifen helps conquer breast cancer cells that have hormone receptors. Women who are at high risk of breast cancer but have no personal history of the disease, or have non-invasive, hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer, or DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ), or have hormone-receptor-positive invasive breast cancer at any stage may take this medication to help reduce breast cancer.
How to use: Tamoxifen is only taken as advised by a doctor. Take dose based on the prescription of a medical help. Do not crush or chew the tablet. Swallow it and drink water to push the tablet thoroughly. Make sure to eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of water to avoid upset in the stomach. Frequent meals limit nausea and vomiting. If you feel symptoms of bone pain, this may probably be the result of of the drug penetrating to treat the cancer.
For female patients, it is best to use a non-hormonal form of birth control during the medication and after stopping the medication. Make sure that you consult your doctor for contraceptive measures that is best for your condition. Also, if you are planning to get pregnant or if you think you are pregnant, please make sure that you let your doctor know of it, to avoid problems.
Observe body changes. Monitor your body weight, have a physical exam of your breasts, pelvic exam with a pap smear, routine mammograms and other lab tests.
Pregnant and breast feeding female patients, as well as women who may be pregnant or are planning on getting pregnant, must take the medication with care since it may not be safe for the developing baby. Again, it is best to consult the doctor for proper usage, dosage, risks and benefits.
Also, patients who have bone disease, blood disorders, high cholesterol, or vision problems must be cautious in taking the medication.
Common Side Effects: May occur during the first few days after beginning therapy, but usually resolve:
- Nausea and vomiting; hot flashes, edema; irregular menstrual cycles, or bone pain; or dry, itchy skin, especially in genital area
Serious Side Effects: Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Severe bone pain; vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge; pelvic pain or pressure; ankle swelling; shortness of breath; calf pain, redness or warmth; confusion; headaches; new breast lumps; or coughing up blood
- Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing
Drug Interaction:
- There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which will alter the action of this medication. Some include estrogen supplements and blood thinners.
- It is extremely important that you consult with your doctor about dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with this medication. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Overdose: It can lead to difficulty in breathing, convulsions, dizziness, a loss of balance, and overactive reflexes.
Missed Dose: Missed to take the drug on time? Please skip it and just move on to the next dose. Be sure to take the dose on time and take only 1 dose at a time.
Important Note: Consult your doctor regularly and observe changes on your body or if there are symptoms during medication.
Storage:
- Store in a dry place at 15-30°C (59-86°F).
- Protect from sunlight and moisture.
- DO NOT store in the bathroom.
Helpful links about Tamoxifen:
