Tamoxifen (Oral)
Key points
- Treats advanced breast cancer in men and women, and early breast cancer in women.
- You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tamoxifen, if you are also taking blood thinners such as Coumadinreg;, or if you have ever had blood clotting problems.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Also may prevent breast cancer in women who are at a high risk because of age, family history, or other factors.
Tamoxifen (By Mouth)
Tamoxifen (ta-MOX-i-fen)
Treats advanced breast cancer in men and women, and early breast cancer in women. Also may prevent breast cancer in women who are at a high risk because of age, family history, or other factors.
Brand Name(s):
Nolvadex
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tamoxifen, if you are also taking blood thinners such as Coumadinreg;, or if you have ever had blood clotting problems. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant.
How to Use This Medicine:
Tablet
- Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to. You may need to take this medicine for 5 years or longer.
- Swallow the tablet whole. You may take this medicine with or without food.
If a dose is missed::
- If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
- Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using aminoglutethimide (Cytadrenreg;), bromocriptine (Parlodelreg;), letrozole (Femarareg;) or other cancer treatments.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.