Tamoxifen is a drug used to treat some types of breast cancer and other health conditions. It acts as a blocker and inhibits the growth of cancer. Tamoxifen has serious side effects, including blood clots and cataracts, and is also linked to gynecological cancers. Despite this, many doctors believe it is worth the risks.
Tamoxifen is a drug developed in the 1960s and used in the treatment of some types of both early and advanced breast cancer. It is sold under several trade names, including Nolvadex®, Valodex® and Istubal®. In addition to being used in the treatment of breast cancer, tamoxifen is also used to treat some other health conditions, including infertility, bipolar disorder, and gyno, a condition in which men develop breast tissue. This medication is available by prescription only and is taken orally, in a dosage determined by the prescriber.
When a breast cancer is estrogen receptor positive, also known as hormone sensitive, tamoxifen can be used to treat the cancer. The drug acts as a blocker, inhibiting the growth of the cancer. The drug is usually taken in combination with other treatments, and people can take it for several years to prevent breast cancer from recurring at the original site and to discourage cancer from appearing in the other breast. The drug also reduces the risk of osteoporosis, a somewhat unexpected side effect.
Some people at high risk of breast cancer can take tamoxifen for prevention, although this use is not widespread. The drug appears to become less effective over time, meaning it may be useless in future treatment if someone has been taking it preventatively, and it also has some serious side effects that should be carefully evaluated before people embark on preventive use of tamoxifen . .
At the low end of the scale, tamoxifen can cause nausea, hair loss, vomiting, bone pain, and weight gain. More seriously, it can contribute to blood clots and cataracts. The drug has also been linked to endometrial changes and has actually been classified as a carcinogen, because women who take tamoxifen are at increased risk for gynecological cancers, particularly uterine cancer. Tamoxifen use can also cause birth defects if women use the drug while pregnant.
Despite the side effects, many doctors believe that taking tamoxifen is worth the risks. Other drugs that work in a similar way are also available, with tamoxifen being among the oldest such drugs on the market. Before taking tamoxifen, patients should discuss their options with their doctors, and it may be a good idea to seek a second opinion from a breast cancer specialist to confirm the most appropriate and effective treatment choice.
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