What Are the Risk Factors for Taking Tamoxifen?

Although it has been determined through studies that the benefits outweigh the risks, the risk factors associated with the use of tamoxifen are serious and must be considered carefully.

History

• Tamoxifen has been used for over 30 years to treat men and women with breast cancer. Since the late1990's tamoxifen has been used on women to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Benefits

• This drug has been shown to slow or stop cancer growth, prevent new and returning breast cancer, lowers blood cholesterol, and slow osteoporosis, according to the Women's Cancer Network.

Side Effects

• Side effect in women include hot flashes, mood changes, headaches, vaginal dryness, nausea or vomiting and irregular menstrual cycles. In men, the side effects may include headaches, nausea or vomiting, skin rash and impotence or decreased sexual interest.

Risk Factors

• The health risks associated with use of tamoxifen include deep vein thrombosis, endometrial cancer, stroke, uterine tumors and cataracts or cornea and/or retina damage. Some scientists says tamoxifen can increased fertility in young women.

Warning

• Women who take tamoxifen should avoid pregnancy because animal studies suggest the drug can cause harm to the fetus.