Tamoxifen

Dosage Forms Available

• Tamoxifen is available in the form of tablets for oral administration.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for both adult men and women.
• It is also suitable for pre-and post-menopausal women.
• Always consult your doctor before taking this medication and follow the dosage prescribed by them.

Contraindications

• This medication is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Tamoxifen or any of its components.
• It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medication can interact with inhibitors and inducers of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes (such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine, and ritonavir), concurrent chemotherapy agents, and anticoagulants (such as warfarin).
• It's crucial to consult a doctor before starting any prescription medications while on Tamoxifen therapy.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Tamoxifen may cause symptoms like shaking, unsteady walking, dizziness, seizures, or difficulty breathing. If you observe any of these symptoms, immediately seek medical help.
• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the forgotten one. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For common side effects like hot flashes, try to stay cool and avoid triggers like spicy foods or alcohol.
• If you experience nausea, try taking the medicine after meals.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Tamoxifen can cause side effects like dizziness and blurred vision that may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities if you experience such symptoms.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Tamoxifen is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby.
• The medicine is also not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential risks to the infant.
• Always consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or nursing.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of blood clots, stroke, or atherosclerosis should take Tamoxifen with caution, as it can increase the risk of these conditions.
• Regular gynecologic exams are necessary during Tamoxifen therapy due to an increased risk of endometrial cancer.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Limit consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice as they may increase Tamoxifen levels in the body.
• Regular physical activity can help manage side effects like fatigue and improve overall health.
• Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption as they can increase the risk of breast cancer.