$Unique_ID{BRK02145}
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$Title{TAMOXIFEN}
$Subject{Nolvadex (Stuart)}
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Copyright (C) 1991 Publications International, Ltd.


TAMOXIFEN
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer):
     Nolvadex (Stuart)
TYPE OF DRUG:
     Antiestrogen and antineoplastic (anticancer drug)
INGREDIENT:
     tamoxifen
DOSAGE FORM:
     Tablets (10 mg)
STORAGE:
     Tamoxifen should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed,
       light-resistant container.

USES

     This medication is used to treat advanced breast cancer in
post-menopausal women.  Tamoxifen is a nonsteroidal antiestrogen drug.  It is
unclear how tamoxifen works, but it may block estrogen binding to breast
tissue, thereby slowing tumor growth.

TREATMENT

     Tamoxifen can be taken either on an empty stomach or with food or a glass
of milk, unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, take the missed dose as soon as
possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose.  In that case, do not
take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule.  Do
not double the next dose of this medication.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Distaste for food, dizziness, headache, hot flashes, lightheadedness,
nausea, vaginal itching, or vomiting.  These side effects should disappear as
your body adjusts to the medication.
     It is important to continue taking this medication despite any nausea or
vomiting that may occur.  If you vomit immediately after taking a dose, call
your doctor; you may have to repeat the dose.
     You may experience an increase in bone and tumor pain when tamoxifen is
first started.  The pain generally subsides rapidly but may require the
temporary use of analgesics (pain relievers).
     If you feel dizzy or light-headed, sit or lie down for a while; get up
slowly from a sitting or reclining position, and be careful on stairs.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
blurred vision, chills, depression, fever, rapid weight gain (three to five
pounds within a week), rash, sore throat, unusual weakness, or vaginal
bleeding or discharge.

INTERACTIONS

     Tamoxifen should not interact with other medications as long as it is
used according to directions.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any medications, especially to tamoxifen.
     * Before starting to take this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if
you now have or if you have ever had blood disorders or visual disturbances.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
