TAMOXIFEN — 10 mg / 20 mg tablet

SERM • adjuvant/ metastatic breast cancer • Rx-only
Prescription-only medicine. Educational content: strengths, brand examples, safety notes, FAQ, and official references. Always follow your local leaflet and clinician guidance.

🩺
Uterine malignancies & thromboembolism risk (boxed warning)
Increased risk of endometrial cancer and DVT/PE; require regular gynaecological monitoring.
✅ Rx-only
✅ 10 mg / 20 mg
✅ Label-first

📦 Product Snapshot

Active substanceTamoxifen citrate
Strength10 mg · 20 mg (as tamoxifen base)
Dosage formFilm-coated tablet · generic available
Strength expressed as tamoxifen base; citrate salt used in manufacturing. Always verify by leaflet.
Reference brandNolvadex® (UK, US, EU)
India brand examplesTamofen® / Oncotam® / Tamoxifen‑Cipla®
Typical indicationHR+ breast cancer (adjuvant/metastatic); DCIS; risk reduction in high‑risk women
Label‑first: indication varies by country; always refer to local prescribing info.

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Use our inquiry form to request official leaflet links, verify common strengths, and ask general authenticity/packaging questions. We do not provide medical advice.

International visitors: our informational support and inquiry form are available to users in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.


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Rx-only • label-first • verify local guidance

🧠 Overview

Tamoxifen is a selective oestrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It competitively inhibits oestrogen binding to oestrogen receptors in breast tissue, thereby blocking oestrogen‑dependent tumour growth. It is the cornerstone of endocrine therapy for hormone receptor‑positive (HR+) breast cancer in both pre‑ and post‑menopausal women. Off‑label / indication‑specific uses include male breast cancer and ovulation induction, though these are not universally approved.

Unlike aromatase inhibitors (which lower oestrogen levels), tamoxifen acts directly on the receptor. It has partial agonist effects in other tissues (bone, endometrium, liver), which explains its distinct safety profile—preserved bone density but increased uterine and thromboembolic risks.

Because of its partial agonist activity and potential for serious adverse reactions, tamoxifen requires strict medical supervision. Baseline and regular gynaecological assessments, along with monitoring for signs of thrombosis, are mandatory. Labelling, dosing intervals, and approved indications can differ between countries (e.g. US, UK, India); always follow locally approved product information.

🏷️ Strengths & Brand Examples

Verified strengths
  • 10 mg (base) film‑coated tablet
  • 20 mg (base) film‑coated tablet
India brands (examples)
  • Tamofen® 10/20 (Abbott)
  • Oncotam® 10/20 (Sun Pharma)
  • Cytotam® 10/20 (Cipla)
  • Tamoxifen‑Khandelwal 10/20
Note: brand availability changes. Verify manufacturer and on-pack labeling for current listings. International brands: Nolvadex® (UK/US), Soltamox® (oral solution).

⚠️ Safety, Side Effects & Monitoring

Commonly discussed effects
  • Hot flushes, vaginal discharge / dryness
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Increased risk of venous thromboembolism (DVT/PE)
  • Endometrial changes (hyperplasia, polyps, carcinoma)
  • Leg cramps, fatigue, nausea (usually mild)
Label-first warnings
Boxed warning (US): increased risk of uterine malignancies and DVT/PE.
• Contraindicated in pregnancy (category D) — can cause fetal harm.
• Concurrent use with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g. paroxetine, bupropion) may reduce efficacy.
• Requires regular pelvic exams, Pap smears, and investigation of any abnormal bleeding.
• Avoid in patients with history of DVT/PE or need for prolonged immobilisation.
• Cataract or other ocular disturbances require ophthalmological evaluation.
No dosing instructions here
Dosing is a clinician decision and varies by indication (20‑40 mg daily), duration, and patient factors (menopausal status, risk profile). This page intentionally avoids dosing schedules — refer to the official leaflet.

❓ FAQ

FAQ question #1: How long should tamoxifen be taken?
Answer: In adjuvant breast cancer, the standard duration is 5‑10 years based on risk/benefit. Extended therapy (10 years) reduces recurrence further but increases side effects. Always follow the protocol decided by your oncologist.
FAQ question #2: Does tamoxifen cause weight gain?
Answer: Weight gain is not a consistent label‑first side effect; however, fluid retention and fatigue may indirectly affect weight. The leaflet does not list weight gain as a common ADR. Discuss any significant changes with your doctor.
FAQ question #3: Can I take tamoxifen if I still have a uterus?
Answer: Yes, but rigorous monitoring is essential because tamoxifen acts as an agonist on the endometrium. Report any abnormal bleeding, spotting, or pelvic pain immediately; annual gynaecological exams are mandatory.

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