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Toxicity of Tamoxifen in Humans

Tamoxifen is a drug that helps reduce the risk of breast cancer in women. This drug is one of the oldest breast cancer prevention medicines on the market. However, before taking any medicine, it is important to know whether the drug is toxic or whether its side effects outweigh its benefits.

  1. Toxicity

    • Tamoxifen is not known to be highly toxic to humans. In a case study involving tests on humans and rats, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) reports that tamoxifen has no serious toxic potential.

    Overdose

    • It is possible to overdose on tamoxifen. Symptoms of overdose include uncontrollable shaking, unsteadiness and dizziness. If you overdose, contact your local poison control center immediately.

    Common Side Effects

    • Tamoxifen can have side effects. These include bone pain, hot flashes, nausea, tiredness, dizziness, depression, headache, weight loss and cramps. These are usually not serious.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Rare but serious side effects of tamoxifen include uterine cancer, strokes, blood clots, vision problems, yellowing of the skin, fever, blisters and rash. Seek immediate medical care for these symptoms.

    Who Should Avoid Tamoxifen?

    • Tamoxifen should be avoided by pregnant women, heart attack or stroke victims and people who have had blood clots. Children and smokers should not take tamoxifen.

    Is it Worth Taking?

    • The National Cancer Institute reports that the benefits of tamoxifen far outweigh the potential risks involved with taking the drug.

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