Nolvadex

The active ingredient in Nolvadex is tamoxifen, which is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). Certain breast cancers, known as hormone receptor-positive (HR+), rely on hormones such as estrogen to thrive.

Nolvadex treats HR+ breast cancer by blocking cancer cells from receiving the fuel (estrogen) they require to develop, thus preventing the cancer from spreading.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Nolvadex. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Nolvadex:

• Take with or without food, and swallow whole with some water or another beverage.
• Even if you are feeling well, continue to take Nolvadex as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• If you can become pregnant, begin taking Nolvadex during your menstrual cycle. If you're not sure when to start taking this medication, consult your doctor.

The most common side effects of tamoxifen include:

• Hot flashes.
• Swelling of the face, arms, and legs.
• Vaginal bleeding.
• Vaginal discharge.
• Skin changes.
• Mood changes.
• Weakness or tiredness.
• Weight loss.
• Constipation.
• Hair loss.
• Lightheadedness.
• Loss of menstrual periods.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Nolvadex. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Blood clots in your legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism) can cause arm or leg pain, swelling, shortness of breath, chest pain, and a fast heartbeat.
• Stroke symptoms include intense headaches, abrupt confusion, weakness on one side of the body, and difficulty speaking or walking.
• Ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids, and uterine cancer have been reported. This is characterised by abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, as well as pain or pressure below the belly button (pelvis).
• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as a skin rash or hives.
• Liver problems, such as yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice).
• Low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia) and increased risk of bleeding.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Nolvadex. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Nolvadex, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• History of uterine or endometrial cancer.
• Blood clots, or have had in the past.
• Liver problems.
• Cataracts or other eye problems.
• High calcium levels in the blood.
• Low platelet count.

Boxed Warning

Tamoxifen can cause significant and sometimes deadly adverse effects such as uterine cancer, stroke, and blood clots in the lungs, particularly in women taking it to minimise the risk of breast cancer or with DCIS. Women in these groups should discuss the benefits and dangers with their doctor, but for those who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer, the benefits of tamoxifen generally outweigh the risks.

Females who are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer and are either now taking warfarin (Coumadin) or have had blood clots in the past.

According to research, using tamoxifen for five years reduces the risk of developing breast cancer in women who are at high risk.

When Nolvadex is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Letrozole.
• Paroxetine.

Metastatic HR+ breast cancer: The normal dose is 20 mg to 40 mg tamoxifen citrate taken orally once daily. If your total daily dose exceeds 20 mg, your oncologist will instruct you to divide it into two smaller doses and take them by mouth twice daily, in the morning and evening.

Early-stage HR+ breast cancer following surgery: The normal dose is 20 mg taken orally once daily for 5 to 10 years.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): The normal dose is 20 mg taken orally once daily for 5 years.

Lowering the risk of developing breast cancer: The normal dose is 20 mg taken orally once daily for 5 years.

Store Nolvadex at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.

AstraZeneca is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Nolvadex.

There are lower-cost generic versions of Nolvadex available.

To discontinue Nolvadex (tamoxifen), visit your doctor or oncologist beforehand. They will advise you on the best method to cease the drug, taking into consideration your unique circumstances and treatment plan. Abruptly discontinuing Nolvadex can raise the chance of breast cancer recurrence.

Do not use Nolvadex when you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, as this will harm the unborn baby. You should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medication. To prevent pregnancy, make sure to use effective non-hormonal contraception or birth control during treatment and for 2 months following your last dose.

It is not advised to breastfeed while on Nolvadex, as this may harm your infant.