Nolvadex is used for treating certain types of cancers. It may also be used for reducing the risk of a relapse of breast cancer in women with DCIS (after surgery and radiation) .
How does it work
Nolvadex is a hormonal therapy. It blocks the effect of the hormone estrogen on some tumors which use it to spread to other sites in the body. This prevents the tumors from growing.
Taking Nolvadex & the right dosage
Nolvadex may be taken with or without a meal.
Storage
Store Nolvadex in a cool and dark place at room temperature. Do not store it in a place where it can get exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Keep it away from children and pets.
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Before using Nolvadex, you should consult a physician and discuss about your medical history.
You should not use Nolvadex if:
You are allergic to any ingredient in Nolvadex
You are using it to reduce your risk of breast cancer and you have had a problem with blood clots forming in your leg or lungs
You also take certain anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) when you are using Nolvadex to reduce the risk of breast cancer
You are taking anastrozole
Nolvadex may not be suitable for you if:
You are immobile or confined to a bed or chair
Your lipid levels are very high
You have vision problems or cataracts
Your immune system is weak
The platelet level in your blood is low
You have high calcium levels in your blood
You have had blood clots in your legs or lungs
Drug Interactions
Nolvadex may interact with some medications. So if you are using any prescription, non prescription, OTC medicines or dietary supplements, then inform your physician in advance before you use Nolvadex.
Some of them are:
Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin)
Cytotoxic cancer medicines
Mitomycin C
Aromatase inhibitors
Additional Information
Nolvadex reduces your platelet count. This may cause you to bleed profusely if injured. Avoid activities that can cause you to get injured.
Nolvadex may weaken your immunity. Avoid contact with people who have contagious infections.
Some people using Nolvadex have developed potentially fatal tumors in other sites in the body. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor.
Pregnancy Information
Nolvadex may be passed on to the baby if you are breast feeding. Please speak to your doctor about the potential risks of breast feeding while using Nolvadex.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Nolvadex are:
Bone pain; cough; dizziness; hot flashes; muscle pain; nausea; tiredness; vaginal discharge; weight loss.
These side effects usually subside by themselves in sometime as the body gets used to Nolvadex.
Some uncommon but potentially dangerous side effects are:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); abnormal menstrual periods; calf or leg pain, swelling, redness, or tenderness; chest pain; confusion; coughing up blood; dark urine; decreased sexual desire or ability; depression; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; groin or pelvic pain or pressure; increased or painful urination; loss of balance or coordination; missed menstrual period; new or unusual breast lumps or pain; one-sided weakness; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; severe or persistent loss of appetite, nausea, or stomach pain; severe or persistent tiredness or weakness; shortness of breath; skin changes; slurred speech; sudden severe headache; swelling of the arms or the legs; symptoms of high blood calcium levels (eg, change in the amount of urine produced; increased thirst; irregular heartbeat; mental or mood changes; muscle aches or weakness; severe or persistent constipation or vomiting); unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual vaginal bleeding or bloody discharge; vision problems; yellowing of the eyes or skin.
You should see a doctor immediately if one of these side effects occur.