Tamoxifen

Information about Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen2DACS

File:Tamoxifen Raloxifen nci-vol-2738-300.jpg

Tamoxifen Raloxifen nci-vol-2738-300

Tamoxifen is a nonsteroidal antiestrogen that is widely used in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. 

Liver safety of Tamoxifen

Long term tamoxifen therapy has been associated with development of fatty liver, steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and rare instances of clinically apparent acute liver injury. 

Mechanism of action of Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen (ta mox' i fen) is referred to as a selective estrogen receptor modulator with tissue specific actions because it has estrogenic effects on bone, brain and liver, but antagonist activity on breast tissue.  Tamoxifen may also have other, as yet undefined, anticancer effects. 

FDA approval information for Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen was approved for use in the United States in 1977 and is still widely used, being considered a first line adjuvant therapy for breast cancer. 

Current indications include both treatment of breast cancer and reduction of breast cancer risk in women at high risk. 

Dosage and administration for Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen is available in 10 and 20 mg tablets generically and under several trade names such as Nolvadex and Tamone.  Tamoxifen is also available as an oral solution (10 mg/5 mL).  The usual dose for treating breast cancer is 20 to 40 mg daily, and for secondary prevention is 20 mg once daily for five years. 

Side effects of Tamoxifen

Common side effects include hot flashes, nausea, diarrhea, weight change and fluid retention. 

• Dailymed label info on Tamoxifen
• FDA Tamoxifen

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