Side Effects For Women Who Take Nolvadex

Nolvadex is the brand name for the prescription drug tamoxifen. It is used to prevent hormone-receptor positive breast cancers in women who are at risk. Nolvadex attaches to estrogen receptors in the body but does not stimulate them. This allows it to block the effects of estrogen in the body. The most common side effects of Nolvadex are similar to the symptoms of menopause. Some of the side effects of Nolvadex are serious, but those are rare.

Hot Flashes

Because Nolvadex blocks the effects of estrogen in the body it can cause menopausal symptoms. About 25 percent of women who take Nolvadex will experience hot flashes. A woman having a hot flash will suddenly feel very hot and start sweating. Hot flashes are not harmful, but they are annoying.

Nausea and Vomiting

Twenty-five percent of women who take Nolvadex will have nausea and vomiting. Taking Nolvadex with food sometimes prevents this effect.

Blood Clot

Nolvadex can increase the risk of developing a blood clot. This risk is very small, but it can be serious if it occurs. The National Cancer Institute says that the risk of developing a blood clot while taking Nolvadex is similar to that of hormone replacement therapy. Blood clots can also lead to heart attack or stroke. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice soreness or burning in your calf, chest pain or a sudden, intense headache.

Uterine Cancer

Women who take Nolvadex are more likely to develop uterine cancer, although the risk is still small. The risk of endometrial cancer, which is a cancer of the lining of the uterus, is normally 1 case in 1,000 women. For women taking Nolvadex, the risk increases to 2 cases in 1,000 women. The risk of developing uterine sarcoma is also increased with Nolvadex, but the risk is still less than 1 case per 1,000 women. Women who take Nolvadex should have regular pelvic exams and contact a doctor if they notice any abnormal vaginal bleeding. The National Cancer Institute maintains that for women at risk for developing breast cancer, the benefits of Nolvadex outweigh the risks.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes clouded. This is a natural result of aging, but the risk seems to be higher in people who take Nolvadex.