Nolvadex

DRUG TITLE

Nolvadex (Tamoxifen)

APPLICATION

Nolvadex is an antiestrogen that is used in the treatment of breast cancer that spreads to other parts of the body. It is also used in combination with other medication to treat and prevent the risk of developing breast cancer.

Application method

Use Nolvadex as it is prescribed by your doctor.

• Nolvadex can be taken inside with food or after eating.
• It is recommended to take Nolvadex with water or another nonalcoholic liquid.
• Swallow the whole tablet without chewing.
• Continue to take Nolvadex, even if you feel better. Do not miss any doses. Acceptance of Nolvadex in the scheduled time every day will help you not to forget to take it with you.

THE MECHANISM OF ACTION

Nolvadex is an antiestrogen. It works by blocking the action of estrogen on certain tumors. This may prevent the growth of tumors that are driven by estrogen.

MISSED DOSE

If you miss a dose of Nolvadex then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

KEEPING

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

OVERDOSE

A Nolvadex overdose may require immediate medical attention as it produces symptoms like exaggerated reflexes, seizures, severe or persistent dizziness, tremor, trouble breathing, and trouble walking.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, if you have a history of blood clots in the legs or lungs, have high levels of calcium in your blood, a weakened immune system, or low levels of white blood cells or platelets in your blood, if you have high cholesterol or lipid levels, have cataracts or other vision problems, if you are using cytotoxic cancer medicines or you are confined to a bed or chair.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you are using Nolvadex to reduce your risk of breast cancer and you have a history of blood clots in the lung or leg or you also take certain anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) or if you are taking anastrozole.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Nolvadex and contact your doctor immediately. Do not become pregnant while you are using it and for 2 months after you stop using it.

Nolvadex is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with Nolvadex and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Nolvadex reduces the blood clotting and hence you must avoid all activities which can bruise or injure you.

Consult your doctor immediately if you have dark, tarry, or bloody stools or if you have unusual bruising or bleeding or notice fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.

New tumors have occurred in sites other than the uterus in patients taking Nolvadex. It is unknown if Nolvadex may be the cause.

Women who use Nolvadex to reduce the risk of breast cancer should have a breast exam, mammogram, and gynecological exam before starting and during treatment with Nolvadex.

Women who may become pregnant should begin taking Nolvadex during a menstrual period. Women who have irregular menstrual periods should have a pregnancy test immediately before starting Nolvadex.

Women who may become pregnant must use effective nonhormonal birth control (eg, condoms, diaphragm) during sexual intercourse while they are taking Nolvadex and for 2 months after they stop taking it. Do not use hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills), it may not work as well while you are taking Nolvadex.

Nolvadex should be used with extreme caution in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

SIDE EFFECTS

Some of the common side effects of are bone pain, constipation, coughing, hot flashes, muscle pain, nausea, tiredness, vaginal discharge, weight loss. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, unexplained hoarseness), abnormal menstrual periods, abnormal vaginal bleeding or bloody discharge, chest pain, coughing up blood, dark urine, decreased sexual desire or ability, depression, fever, chills, or persistent sore throat, groin or pelvic pain or pressure, loss of appetite, loss of balance or coordination, missed menstrual period, new or increased breast tumor or pain, new or unusual lumps, one–sided weakness, pain or swelling in one or both legs, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin, severe or persistent tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath, skin changes, stomach pain, sudden severe headache, swelling of the arms or the legs, unusual bleeding or bruising, vision or speech problems, yellowing of the eyes or skin.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Nolvadex should be taken only by patients for whom it is prescribed.
If symptoms do not improve or become worse, consult your doctor.