Nolvadex (Tamoxifen)

General information

Nolvadex belongs to the class of anti-estrogens. The medicine is prescribed for breast cancer treatment. This type of medication is acting like an antagonist of estrogen receptor and completely prevents estrogen influence on tumors caused by this hormone. Blockading estrogen Nolvadex stops tumor growth. Nolvadex treats cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It can be used by women who are at high risk for breast cancer and by women with DCIS (after surgery and radiation) to decrease the risk of developing breast cancer.

Directions

It is recommended to take the medicine as it was prescribed by your doctor. Take it with a big glass of water. Do not exceed your prescribed dosage. The recommended dose of tamoxifen is 20 mg to 40 mg daily taken in 1 dose or in 2 divided doses. It may be taken with or without food.

Precautions

Before taking tamoxifen, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Being treated with Nolvadex the patient should be monitored for any abnormal vaginal bleeding, changes in menstrual periods, change in vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain or pressure. It can increase the possibility of endometrial cancer development. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: high cholesterol/triglycerides, limited or no ability to walk (immobility), diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, cataracts, liver disease.

Contraindications

Pregnant and breastfeeding women and patients with hypersensitivity to Nolvadex can't use the medicine. Patients with eye diseases, hyperlipidemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, hypercalcemia, severe thrombophlebitis, and thromboembolism should be monitored.

Side effects

Common side effects are hot flashes, mild nausea or vomiting, weight gain, abnormal menstrual periods, bone pain, skin rash, lightheadedness, leg cramps, yellow eyes or skin, unexpected vaginal bleeding, vision changes (e.g., blurred vision), rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Drug interaction

The medicine can cause abnormalities in liver and blood tests, so regular monitoring of side effects caused by Nolvadex is required. In any sign of side effect a patient should consult his doctor.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time of the next intake just skip it and go back to your schedule.

Overdose

If you think you have overdosed the medicine seek emergency medical help immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: shaking, unsteady walking, fainting, irregular heartbeat.

Storage

Store the medicine at room temperature between 20-25 C (68-77 F).

Note

The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.