Nolvadex

Nolvadex contains tamoxifen citrate, a nonsteroidal selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that acts primarily as an estrogen antagonist in breast tissue. It is used to treat estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer by blocking estrogen’s effects, which can stimulate the growth of certain breast cancer cells. Nolvadex also reduces the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk of developing the disease. Additionally, tamoxifen can lower blood cholesterol levels and does not adversely affect bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.

Key Features

• Blocks estrogen receptors in breast tissue to inhibit tumor growth.

• Used for treatment and prevention of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

• Can reduce contralateral breast cancer occurrence and treat ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

• Exhibits both estrogen antagonist and partial agonist effects depending on tissue.

• Oral administration with good tolerability and extensive clinical use.

• Also lowers blood cholesterol and preserves bone density in postmenopausal women.

Common Uses

• Treatment of metastatic and early-stage estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in women and men.

• Adjuvant therapy following surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy to reduce cancer recurrence.

• Reduction of breast cancer risk in high-risk women.

• Treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

• Occasionally used off-label for infertility treatment.

Dosage

• Typical dose: 20-40 mg daily. Nolvadex 25mg tablets are usually taken once daily or divided into two doses if above 20 mg.

• For breast cancer treatment and prevention, therapy commonly lasts 5 years.

• Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, taken at about the same time each day. Can be taken with or without food.

Potential Side Effects

• Hot flashes (most common)

• Mood swings or changes, Vaginal discharge or bleeding, Nausea and vomiting, Fluid retention, Fatigue, Muscle cramps and pain, Constipation, Hair thinning or loss, Skin rash and itching

• Rare but serious: thromboembolic events (blood clots), stroke, endometrial changes, liver enzyme abnormalities, cataracts.

Warnings

• Increased risk of uterine (endometrial) cancer.

• Elevated risk of blood clots including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

• Not safe during pregnancy; can cause fetal harm. Effective contraception is necessary during treatment and for at least 2 months after stopping.

• May increase risk of stroke and cataracts.

• Regular monitoring recommended for liver function, eye health, and signs of thromboembolism.

• Patients should report any unusual pelvic pain, vision changes, swelling, or neurological symptoms immediately.