$Unique_ID{BRK03341}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{tamoxifen}
$Subject{Nolvadex ICI Antiestrogen antineoplastic anticancer tamoxifen
advanced breast cancer postmenopausal nonsteroidal block estrogen tissue}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd.


tamoxifen
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer)

     Nolvadex (ICI)

TYPE OF DRUG

     Antiestrogen and antineoplastic (anticancer drug)

INGREDIENT

     tamoxifen

DOSAGE FORM

     Tablets (10 mg)

STORAGE

     Tamoxifen should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed,
light-resistant container.

USES

     This medication is used in the treatment of advanced breast cancer in
postmenopausal women.  Tamoxifen is a nonsteroidal antiestrogen drug.  It is
not yet fully understood how tamoxifen works, but it is possible that the drug
acts to block estrogen from binding to the breast tissue, this action would
work to inhibit further tumor growth.

TREATMENT

     Tamoxifen can be taken either on an empty stomach or with food or a glass
of milk, unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, take the missed dose as soon as
possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose.  In that case, do not
take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule.  Do
not double the next dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Distaste for food, dizziness, headache, hot flashes, light-headedness,
nausea, vaginal itching, or vomiting.  These side effects should disappear as
your body adjusts to the medication.
     It is extremely important that you continue to take this medication in
spite of any nausea or vomiting that you may experience.  If you vomit
immediately after taking a dose, call your doctor; it may be necessary for you
to repeat the dose.
     It is possible that you may experience an increase in bone and tumor pain
when your treatment with tamoxifen is first started.  The pain generally
subsides rapidly but may require the temporary use of analgesics (pain
relievers).  Be sure to consult your doctor if you experience any unusual pain
after starting tamoxifen.
     If you feel dizzy or light-headed, sit or lie down for a while; get up
slowly from a sitting or reclining position.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
blurred vision, chills, depression, fever, rapid weight gain (three to five
pounds within a week), rash, sore throat, unusual weakness, or vaginal
bleeding or discharge.

INTERACTIONS

     The activity and anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects of drugs such as
warfarin can be increased when they are taken at the same time as tamoxifen.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking an anticoagulant.

WARNINGS

     * Be sure to tell your doctor about any unusual or allergic reactions you
have had to any medications, especially to tamoxifen.
     * Before starting to take this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if
you now have or if you have ever had blood disorders or visual disturbances.
     * Before starting to take this medication, it is very important for you
to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although there have been no studies
done on the effects of this medication in pregnant women, isolated reports of
problems have been documented when pregnant women have been using tamoxifen.
Also be sure to tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.