Tamoxifen Side Effects

Tamoxifen, brand name Nolvadex, has been used for over 30 years to treat breast cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Side effects can range from medically serious to mildly uncomfortable.
Serious side effects include a slightly higher risk of blood clots, strokes, and some kinds of uterine cancer. Milder side effects like hot flashes, mood swings, nausea and joint pain are also possible. The effects depend upon how your body tolerates Tamoxifen. Some women who have developed breast cancer once and are at high risk for getting it again may continue on this drug for up to five years to prevent recurrences.

Blood Clots and Strokes

The Breast Cancer Prevention Trial, funded by the National Cancer Institute, found that taking Tamoxifen for five years did slightly increase the risk of both blood clots and strokes. This is more likely if you are taking Tamoxifen and also on chemotherapy.

Uterine Cancer

Women who are on Tamoxifen have a somewhat higher likelihood of getting endometrial Cancer and uterine sarcoma. The risk is very small and in most cases, the benefits outweigh this possibility.

Hot Flashes

The side effects most commonly reported with Tamoxifen are hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. These side effects are experienced by 50 to 80 percent of women on Tamoxifen. Hot flashes vary in intensity and are unpleasant but not life-threatening.

Nausea

Nausea does not always accompany Tamoxifen and if it occurs, it is usually mild. Most patients report only intermittent feelings of stomach discomfort.

Joint Pain

Joint pain sometimes accompanies Tamoxifen use. It can be an isolated incident or mimic arthritis-like symptoms. Usually over the counter pain medication helps but if the symptoms are severe, consult your doctor.

Resources

• National Cancer Institute Overview of Tamoxifen
• Breast Cancer and Tamoxifen

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