Tamoxifen, an oral medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration, has been used for over thirty years, according to the National Cancer Institute to treat breast cancer in both women and men. This drug is known as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM); specifically, it blocks the female hormone, estrogen, from acting on breast cells in breast cancers that are hormone receptive or hormone positive. This medication is also used in women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer or for men with extensive breast tissue growth.
Hot Flashes
There are several frequent side effects reported with the use of this drug. The most common reported are menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular menstrual periods, vaginal discharge or vaginal dryness and mood changes. These symptoms are not considered serious and they will vary according to the individual.
Gastric Distress
Various types of stomach problems are associated with this medication, which also are not considered serious. These include nausea and vomiting, an upset stomach or indigestion.
Circulatory Disorders
The Breast Cancer Prevention Trial, according to the NCI which funded this trial, found that being on Tamoxifen for several years slightly increases the risk for blood clots, pulmonary emboli, and strokes. Changes in terms of easy bruising or bleeding also may result. This effect is prominent when Tamoxifen is combined with chemotherapy. Thus, it is a contradication to treat individuals with Tamoxifen who have a history of blood clots or other circulatory disorders.
Uterine Cancer
There are potentially serious side effects of taking this drug. Tamoxifen stimulates estrogen in the lining of the uterus. According to the NCI, women who take Tamoxifen are at an increased risk for two types of uterine malignancy: endometrial (uterine lining) and uterine sarcoma (uterine wall). The risk is considered small, and the benefits of this drug are usually viewed as outweighing the potential consequences of developing another type of cancer.
