What is Tamoxifen?
Tamoxifen is a hormone therapy drug used for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
Tamoxifen has been approved by the FDA to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in women at high risk of the disease. Tamoxifen is also used to treat all stages of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
Board-Certified Surgeon
MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS
Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.
More About Dr. LeyThis medication works by blocking the effects of estrogen on hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells by staying in the estrogen receptors on the cells. If Tamoxifen is in the receptor, estrogen cannot attach to the cancer cell, and the cell will not receive the signals and grow and multiply. Tamoxifen will not work on hormone receptor-negative breast cancer.
Medicines to Avoid with Tamoxifen
While taking Tamoxifen, you should not take medications that are moderate to strong CYP2D6 inhibitors. This is because they decrease the effect of Tamoxifen. Many antidepressants are CYP2D6 inhibitors, but some are not, so be sure to discuss your current medication list with your doctor.
“The level of care is excellent.”
Tamoxifen Side Effects
Common side effects of Tamoxifen include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Nausea
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Vaginal discharge
- Disruption of the menstrual cycle
- Loss of libido
- Constipation
- Hair thinning
Less common but serious side effects of Tamoxifen include:
- Risk of blood clots
- Stroke
- Cataracts
- Endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma
- Bone loss in premenopausal women
- Liver problems
Tamoxifen Side Effect FAQs
Are tamoxifen side effects permanent?When do tamoxifen side effects start? |
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If you have any questions or concerns regarding Tamoxifen, please do not hesitate to reach out to Tucson Breast Health Specialists in Tucson, AZ today. We are dedicated to helping you through each phase of your breast health journey.
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