Tamoxifen is a medication that stops the effect of estrogen in the body. It used to treat breast cancer in men and women, and other kinds of cancer, as well. For women who are at high risk for developing breast cancer, Tamoxifen may reduce the probability of developing breast cancer. According to Mayo Clinic, you are at high risk for developing breast cancer if you have family members with breast cancer, have ever had a breast biopsy, have never been pregnant or became pregnant late in life, or if you had early onset of your first period. Tamoxifen is available only by prescription. If you experience any side effect for a long period of time, or it causes you discomfort, contact your doctor.
Common Side Effects
Many side effects of tamoxifen are well tolerated and may not require doctor intervention. These common side effects include: irregular periods, decreased urine output, feeling of warmth, and noisy/rattling breathing. Changes in the skin, including redness in face, neck, arms and upper chest have been reported. Swelling of fingers, hands, feet or lower legs, troubled breathing while resting; weight gain or loss and unusual vaginal discharge are also common.
Serious Side Effects
Mayo clinic reports that serious side effects of tamoxifen include bleeding gums, blood in urine or stools, black tarry stools, sexual dysfunction, abdominal pain, swelling, pain, anxiety, depression and difficulty sleeping. Other rare, but serious side effects include eye problems (including cataracts), blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin and mucous membranes, chest pain, fast heartbeat, difficulty breathing, skin rash , itching over entire body, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Consult a doctor if you develop any of these side effects.
Contraindications
According to Mayo Clinic, tamoxifen increase fertilility, so it is best to use some sort of birth control while taking it. You should not take oral contraceptives since they can change the effectiveness of tamoxifen. Mayo Clinic also reports that tamoxifen presents a risk to the fetus during pregnancy. If you have blood problems, cataracts, other eye problems, or high cholesterol levels, you should discuss whether to take this medication with your doctor. Also, if you have uterine cancer, you may be at higher risk for serious side effects from tamoxifen.
