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Tamoxifen

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) Nolvadex® Cancer-related

Tamoxifen - What is it for

Tamoxifen is used to treat breast cancer. It works by blocking the effect of estrogen, a hormone produced by your body. 

Tamoxifen - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Tamoxifen cause?

  • Nausea may occur initially
    If nausea occurs, take Tamoxifen right after food.
  • Hot flushes
    If this affects you, try taking your tablets at bedtime.
  • Changes in menstrual period

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Signs of blood clot e.g. warmth, pain or redness with swelling on arm or leg
  • Sudden onset of cough, chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Changes in eye sight
  • For women: unexpected bleeding or discharge from the vagina

Before taking Tamoxifen , what precautions must I follow?

  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for 2 months after stopping Tamoxifen. Inform your doctor if you suspect pregnancy.
  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any long-term medication or supplements.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Tamoxifen ?

Grapefruit and its juice.

Tamoxifen - Dosage and How to Use

How should Tamoxifen be used?

It is a tablet taken by mouth, usually once daily, with or without food.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Tamoxifen, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is too near to your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time. Do not double dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on Tamoxifen, inform your doctor immediately.

Tamoxifen - Handling

How should I handle Tamoxifen safely?

Tamoxifen - Storage

How should I store Tamoxifen ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store at room temperature;#

How should I dispose of Tamoxifen safely?

Tamoxifen - Additional Information

Click here for more information on the use of Tamoxifen as Anti-Estrogen type of drugs for men.

  • Updated on 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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