This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Nolvadex Consumer Information
NOLVADEX
Generic Name: tamoxifen (ta MOX i fen)
Brand Names: Nolvadex
What is the most important information I should know about tamoxifen?
- Treatment with tamoxifen may increase the risk of certain uterine cancers, stroke, and pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung), which may be fatal. You should discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits associated with the use of tamoxifen.
What is tamoxifen?
- Tamoxifen blocks the actions of the hormone estrogen. Certain types of breast cancer require estrogen to grow.
- Tamoxifen is used to treat and prevent some types of breast cancer that require estrogen to grow.
- Tamoxifen may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tamoxifen?
- Before taking tamoxifen, tell your doctor if you
- have a history of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in the leg);
- have a history of pulmonary thrombosis (blood clot in the lung); or
- take the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin).
- You may not be able to take tamoxifen, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
- Tamoxifen is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that tamoxifen is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take tamoxifen without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during or for two months following treatment. Effective nonhormonal contraception (birth control) should be used during and for two months following treatment with tamoxifen.
- It is not known whether tamoxifen passes into breast milk. Do not take tamoxifen without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take tamoxifen?
- Take tamoxifen exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- Tamoxifen can be taken with or without food.
- It is important to take tamoxifen regularly to get the most benefit.
- Your doctor may want you to have breast exams (or to perform self breast exams), mammograms, blood tests, or other medical evaluations during treatment with tamoxifen to monitor progress and side effects.
- Store tamoxifen at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.
What happens if I overdose?
- An overdose of tamoxifen is unlikely to threaten life. Call an emergency room or a poison control left for advice if you suspect an overdose.
- Symptoms of a tamoxifen overdose are unknown, but nausea, vomiting, seizures, tremor, or dizziness may be expected.
What should I avoid while taking tamoxifen?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity during treatment with tamoxifen unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.