1. Overview
Tamoxifen is a medication commonly used to treat and prevent certain types of breast cancer. It works by affecting estrogen, a hormone that can promote the growth of some breast cancers.
2. How It Works
Tamoxifen blocks estrogen receptors in breast tissue. By preventing estrogen from binding, it slows or stops the growth of hormone-sensitive cancer cells.
3. Common Uses
- Treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in women and men
- Prevention of breast cancer in high-risk individuals
- Reducing the risk of cancer recurrence after surgery
4. Key Benefits
- Helps control or reduce the growth of certain breast cancers
- Can lower the risk of cancer returning after treatment
- Suitable for long-term preventive therapy in high-risk patients
5. Safety & Precautions
- Take exactly as prescribed, usually once daily
- Inform your doctor of any history of blood clots, stroke, or liver disease
- Avoid missing doses and do not stop suddenly without medical advice
- Report unusual symptoms such as leg swelling, chest pain, or vision changes
6. Scientific Literature (External Links)
- Tamoxifen in breast cancer therapy: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29551836/
- Mechanism of action of Tamoxifen: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12860180/
- Preventive use in high-risk individuals: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17018806/