What is this medication for?
Tamoxifen belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medicines
known as antineoplastics, and
specifically to the type of antineoplastics known as anti-estrogens. It fights certain types of breast cancer by
blocking the effects of the hormone estrogen
in the body. This prevents the growth of the types of breast cancer cells that
require estrogen for growth and survival.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Soltamox®
is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose of tamoxifen is 20 mg to
40 mg daily. Doses greater than 20 mg per day should be taken in divided doses (morning and evening).
Tamoxifen sometimes causes nausea;
however, it is important to keep taking the medication even if you begin to
feel ill, unless otherwise directed by the doctor. Do not stop taking tamoxifen
unless you discuss it with your doctor first. If you miss a dose of this
medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next
dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a
missed one. If you vomit shortly after taking your medication call your
doctor to discuss whether you should take the dose again or wait for the next
scheduled dose.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed
by your doctor. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person
needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If
your doctor has recommended a different dose than the ones listed here, do not
change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your
doctor.
You should keep your tablets in a dry place at room
temperature and away from direct light.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Tamoxifen should not
be used by:
- anyone
allergic to tamoxifen or any of the ingredients in the medication
- pregnant
women
- women
who require coumarin-type medications for anticoagulation of blood (e.g.,
warfarin)
- women
with a history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolus