Nolvadex is considered to be effective for treating breast cancer. The drug is also prescribed to prevent cancer that has spread to other parts.

Drug usage

Though Nolvadex is considered effective for reducing the risk of breast cancer, there is a possibility of developing endometrial (uterine) cancer while taking the drug.

How taken

Always stick to the prescription and never deviate from what your doctor has recommended. An oral drug, Nolvadex can be taken with food and also in empty stomach. The drug can be taken either with water or any non-alcoholic liquid.

The drug should be swallowed only. Never chew, break or crush Nolvadex as it should have to get into the body very slowly. The drug should not be stopped on your own even if you feel some relief. The doctor may advise Nolvadex for a very long period.

Missed dose

It is always advised no to miss any dose of Nolvadex. But if a dose is forgotten, just skip it and continue with your regular dosage. Never compensate for missed doses.

More information

You should have to talk elaborately with the doctor if you have allergic reactions to any particular food, medicine or any substance before he prescribes Nolvadex.

Moreover, you should also tell the doctor about all he present and past health history. Tell your doctor if you are having ay history of high levels of calcium, blood clots, high cholesterol, high lipid levels, low white blood cell counts, weak immune system, low platelets counts and vision problems. If you are having any of these problems, your doctor may not prescribe Nolvadex drug or he may alter the dosages.

Nolvadex drug is known to cause harm to the unborn babe. So it is better that pregnant women avoid the drug. Moreover, it is better not to get pregnant while you are on Nolvadex medication. Though it is not known if the drug causes harm to the newborn, breast-feeding moms should only take the drug only after consulting the doctor about all aspects related to the drug.

Warnings/precautions

Nolvadex is also known to interact with certain medicines. So you should tell the physician on all medicines, prescriptive or non-prescriptive medicines, that you use.

Nolvadex is not prescribed if you are taking Anticoagulants, Cytotoxic cancer medicines, Rifampin, Fluorouracil, mitomycin C and Aromatase inhibitors.

After taking the medicine, never drive or perform any hard task, as the drug is known to cause dizziness. The effects can worsen if you consume alcohol.

You should also avoid bruising, as Nolvadex is known to reduce platelets in the blood. As Nolvadex is known to lower the immunity of your body, you should not come in contact with persons who have infections.

Well, while you are on Nolvadex medication, you should have to keep your appointments and lab tests, as the doctor needs to check your blood, breast and other functions.

Side effects

Nolvadex comes with several side effects. The common side effects seen in persons using Nolvadex include pain in the bone/muscle, hot flashes, coughing, weight loss and vaginal discharge.

Some of the allergic reactions include hives, swelling and difficult breathing. Some persons may also come across serious effects including abnormal periods, vaginal bleeding, chest pain, dark urine and decreased sexual desire.