Nolvadex is a medication used to treat breast cancer as well as to reduce the chances of getting breast cancer for high risk patients. It blocks the growth of breast cancer so that it doesn’t spread by interfering with the effects of estrogen in the breast tissue.
Nolvadex is also known by its generic name of Tamoxifen. At the current time Nolvadex has been discontinued in the United States, although there may be generic versions of it available.
In order to get the most out of this medication, it is suggested that it be taken either with or without food once or twice daily for at least 5 years.
When taking Nolvadex, if it is being used to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body it may cause an increase in bone pain or an increase in flare ups.
It is suggested that women who are pregnant do not handle this medication or ingest the dust from the tablets, as Nolvadex can be absorbed into the body through the skin and lungs.
Side affects from taking Nolvadex include thinning of the hair, headaches, nausea, hot flashes, muscle aches, leg cramps, and numbness or skin tingling. It can also decrease sexual desire in men. Other symptoms include increased bone pain, increased tumor size, and new tumors. Though these symptoms usually don’t last long and will go away quickly, they should be reported to your healthcare provider if noticed.
Although rare, more serious side effects include vision changes such as blurred vision, unusual tiredness, mood changes, swelling of the ankles or feet, eye pain, easy bruising or bleeding, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or signs of infection such as fever or sore throat. Should you experience any of these symptoms, let your doctor know right away. Although rare, should you have symptoms of an allergic reaction such as a rash, severe dizziness, trouble with breathing, or itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Before taking Nolvadex, let your doctor know if you have a history of blood clots, history of a stroke, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, cataracts, liver disease, any type of condition that requires use of a blood thinner medication, or if you smoke.
It is not recommended that this medication be taken if you are pregnant, as it may cause harm to the unborn child. While taking Nolvadex, it is not recommended that you breast feed due to the fact that it is not known if it can pass into breast milk.
Nolvadex should not be used if currently taking anastrozole or letrozole. Before taking Nolvadex, speak with your healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications, especially if you are taking any blood thinners, estrogens, birth control, phenobarbital, rifamycins, or St. John’s wort.
The use of Nolvadex can possibly interfere with certain lab tests such as thyroid tests, and could throw the results of the tests off causing false test results.
Should you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose.
If you overdose while taking Nolvadex, seek medical attention immediately.
Keep stored in an area at room temperature and away from light or moisture. Store out of reach from children and animals.