Soltamox (Tamoxifen Citrate) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Soltamox

Breast Cancer Clinical Trials »

What Is a Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial is a research program conducted with patients to evaluate a new medical treatment, drug or device. The purpose of a breast cancer clinical trial is to find new and improved methods of treating the disease. Clinical trials make it possible to apply the latest scientific and technological advances to patient care.

During a breast cancer clinical trial, researchers, usually physicians, use the best available treatment as a standard to evaluate new treatments. These treatments may be a new drug, surgery or an alternative medicine.

First, researchers study new treatment options in the laboratory in test tubes and animals. If those results are promising, new treatments are further evaluated in a small group of people, and, finally, in a larger clinical trial.

When a new medical treatment is studied for the first time in humans, no one knows exactly how it will work. With any new treatment, there are possible risks as well as be...

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Soltamox

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Soltamox Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tamoxifen (Soltamox)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to tamoxifen.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

liver disease;
high levels of triglycerides (fatty acids) in your blood;
a history of stroke or blood clot;
a history of cataract; or
if you are receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

Taking tamoxifen may increase your risk of uterine cancer, stroke, or a blood clot in the lung, which can be fatal. Talk with your doctor about your specific risks in taking this medication.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use tamoxifen without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use a non-hormonal form of birth control (such as a condom or a diaphragm and spermicide) while you are using this medication and for 2 months after your treatment ends.

It is not known whether tamoxifen passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take tamoxifen (Soltamox)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

Tamoxifen can be taken with or without food.

If you are taking tamoxifen to reduce your risk of breast cancer, you may need to take your first dose while you are having a menstrual period. You may also need to have a pregnancy test before you start taking tamoxifen, to make sure you are not pregnant. Follow your doctor's instructions.

It is important to use tamoxifen regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely. You may need to keep using this medication for up to 5 years.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your doctor may want you to have mammograms and to perform routine breast self exams on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store tamoxifen at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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