Information on Tamoxifen for Cancer Treatment

Tamoxifen is an antiestrogen medication prescribed in the treatment of breast cancer. According to Medline Plus, patients taking tamoxifen for cancer prevention are likely to be on the medication for five years.

Uses

• Tamoxifen can be used to prevent breast cancer from spreading into other parts of the body. It can treat early cancer in women who have already had radiation or chemotherapy treatments. Patients in high risk groups for breast cancer may take the medication as a preventive measure.

Function

• Tamoxifen blocks estrogen from acting on tissues in such a way as to enlarge tumors. The medication binds to the estrogen receptors in breast cells, preventing estrogen and coactivators from forming bonds that can lead to cell growth.

Antidepressants and Recurrence

• Medco Health Solutions conducted a study that analyzed the relationship between concurrent tamoxifen and antidepressant treatments and resulting cancer recurrence. The study found that patients taking Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft with tamoxifen had a more than doubled rate of recurrence than those on only tamoxifen. Patients taking Celexa, Luvox, and Lexapro did not show significant increases in recurrence over those only on tamoxifen.

Side Effects

• Common side effects of tamoxifen include weight loss, fatigue, and decreased libido in men. Serious side effects may include fever, rash, or swelling.

Warnings

• Tamoxifen may cause uterine cancer, blood clots, or stroke. Women who are currently or may become pregnant should not take this medication as it can harm the fetus.