Nolvadex - What Is it?
Nolvadex is a medication that is available by prescription only. It is used for the treatment and prevention of certain types of breast cancer. It has been approved to be used in the following ways: to treat breast cancer in men and women that is metastic; to treat DCIS, which is a cancer of the breasts and ducts that hasn't spread through the breast; in women that have had surgery or radiation to help reduce the risk of breast cancer that is invasive; treatment of breast cancer that is node positive in women that are post menopausal women who have had surgery or radiation treatment; to prevent breast cancer in those that are at an elevated risk for it.
Who manufactures Nolvadex?
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals is the maker of brand name Nolvadex, but it is not being made anymore. Generic forms of Nolvadex are made by many different companies and are still on the market.
How it Works
Nolvadex belongs to the class of medications known as SERMs, or selective estrogen receptor modulators. These medications have effects that are both like estrogen and anti estrogen. Nolvadex has effects on the breasts which are anti estrogen, but on the bones it is more like estrogen and helps to make them strong.
Possible Side Effects
Commonly reported side effects include: vaginal discharge, hot flashes, nausea, fluid retention and irregular menstrual periods.
Generic Forms of Nolvadex
AstraZeneca was the original maker of Nolvadex until 2006. Now, there are generic forms of Nolvadex made by different companies. It is often sold by the name Tamoxifen Citrate and is in the form of tablets.