As an anti-androgen therapy, Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) falls in a group of hormonal treatment options for advanced prostate and breast cancers. This drug has been found to slow down the growth of cancer tumors and relieve pain also the number of testosterone hormones in the body. However, users should be careful when using it since it may present a range of side effects since it is a hormonal drug. Unlike anti-androgens, it does not increase the amount of estrogen in the body, minimizing the growth of breast cancers.
A study by the University Clinic Erlangen to ascertain the beneficial role of Tamoxifen in treating breast cancer resulting from anti-androgen therapy showed that the patients responded positively to the treatment. As an anti-estrogen therapy used as a cancer treatment, Tamoxifen has also been found to be an effective alternative to invasive surgery in treating gynecomastia, especially in men. When compared to other treatments such as anastrozole and traditional options such as radiotherapy, Tamoxifen was found to be extremely potent anti-androgen therapy.
Following this study, numerous other studies and clinical trials have been done to assess the treatment effects of Tamoxifen and the optimal dose for effective eradication of cancers. While more studies need to be conducted to allow for a conclusive observation, studies carried out so far reveal that this is a promising drug for serious breast cancers among older women. A majority of people undergoing anti-androgen therapy experience breast events, causing them to stop the treatment plans. Fortunately, based on the studies alluded to, Tamoxifen as proven to be a potent therapeutic option that can minimize disturbing side effects. That means that this drug can be used alongside anti-androgen therapy. That means an improved approach to the treatment of prostate cancer with an ability to increase the quality of life.
Possible side effects of Tamoxifen
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Like all cancer treatment drugs, Tamoxifen may present specific side effects, including weight gain, hair loss, nausea, sleeping problems, which patients sampled have claimed to have experienced. Nevertheless, these side effects are mostly mild and less severe compared to other forms of treatment.
Tamoxifen is a lifesaving treatment for many women with breast cancer. Doctors say that the benefits of this drug outperform its side effects. Here are some of the things in terms of pros and cons that patients wishing to use Tamoxifen can experience.
Tamoxifen is both a preventive as well as a treatment of cancer. Tamoxifen is classified as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (or SERMs), meaning that it works by binding to estrogen receptors in the breast cells to block the mutation of cells.
Administration
This drug may be administered orally as a pill or in liquid forms to pre-menopausal women as a first option or after undergoing surgery in a view to combat the spread of cancer. Tamoxifen can be used alongside medicine to help remove the cancer cells altogether to reduce the risk of reoccurrence of disease or to avoid the spreading of the disease to other organs.
It also a good fit for women both pre and post-menopause who are at risk of cancer reoccurrence. Remember that older women are at risk, and this can be exuberated by certain factors such as biopsies and a history of cancer in the family.
Tamoxifen works by depriving cancer cells of estrogen, which is their primary nutrition, according to specialists. Therefore, it may only work for cancers that are fed on estrogen or progesterone. Other factors can Impact Its Mechanism.
Characters who have an unusual version of the CYP2D6 enzyme may find Tamoxifen less useful according to some recent studies. Therefore, you might need to be tested for this type of protein before starting a treatment involving Tamoxifen.
Some medications such as diphenhydramine, cimetidine, and antidepressants can impact the activity of the CYP2D6 enzyme. Therefore, it is essential to share with your doctor every bit of information regarding the medication and your medical history for effective results.
For How Long Should You Use Tamoxifen Citrate?
It is not clear how long one should use this drug, but many oncologists suggest five to ten years to help reduce the risks of cancer re-emerging. If you are past menopause, Tamoxifen may not be a practical option. Therefore, aromatase inhibitors may be the best alternative for post-menopause women.