Nolvadex

Pronounced: NOLL-vah-decks
Generic name: Tamoxifen citrate

Why is Nolvadex prescribed?

Nolvadex, an anticancer drug, is given to treat breast cancer. It also has proved effective when cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Nolvadex is most effective in stopping the kind of breast cancer that thrives on estrogen.

Nolvadex is also prescribed to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer following surgery and radiation therapy for ductal carcinoma in situ. The drug can also be used to reduce the odds of breast cancer in women at high risk of developing the disease. It does not completely eliminate your chances, but in a five-year study of over 1,500 high-risk women, it slashed the number of cases by 44 percent.

Most important fact about Nolvadex

Although Nolvadex reduces the risk of breast cancer, it increases othe possibility of developing endometrial (uterine) cancer. Women taking Nolvadex should have routine gynecological examinations and report any abnormal vaginal bleeding, changes in menstrual periods, change in vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain or pressure to the doctor immediately. Even after Nolvadex therapy has stopped, any abnormal vaginal bleeding should be reported at once.

How should you take Nolvadex?

Take Nolvadex exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor. It may be necessary to continue taking the drug for several years.

--If you miss a dose...

Do not try to make it up. Go back to your regular schedule with the next dose.

--Storage instructions...

Nolvadex may be stored at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects from Nolvadex are usually mild and rarely require the drug to be stopped. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Nolvadex.

• More common side effects may include:
  Hot flashes, nausea, vomiting

Why should Nolvadex not be prescribed?

Do not take Nolvadex if you are sensitive to it or have ever had an allergic reaction to it.

If you are taking the blood-thinning drug Coumadin or have had problems with clots in your veins or your lungs, you should not take Nolvadex to reduce the risk of breast cancer, and when taking it to treat an actual case of the disease, you should use it with caution.