Soltamox

Generic name: Tamoxifen citrate

What is Soltamox?

Soltamox is used to lower the risk of getting breast cancer in women with a higher than normal risk in the next 5 years. Also, it is used to lower the risk of getting invasive (spreading) breast cancer in women who had surgery and radiation for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS, cancer that only occurs inside the milk ducts). Soltamox also treats breast cancer in women after they have finished early treatment, which can include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Soltamox may keep the cancer from spreading to others parts of the body. It may also reduce the woman's chance of getting a new breast cancer. Lastly, in women and men, Soltamox is used to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer).

What is the most important information I should know about Soltamox?

People taking Soltamox to treat breast cancer have different benefits and decisions regarding treatment than those taking Soltamox to reduce the chance of getting breast cancer (eg, high-risk women or women with DCIS). Serious and life-threatening events associated with Soltamox in the high-risk or DCIS categories include uterine cancer, stroke, and blood clots in the lungs. If you already have breast cancer, talk with your doctor about how the benefits of treating breast cancer with Soltamox compare to the risks.

Who should not take Soltamox?

Do not take Soltamox if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This drug may cause harm to your unborn baby or pass through breast milk. Also, do not take this drug if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, have a blood clot, or cannot walk around often or frequently.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Soltamox?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking to prevent a harmful interaction with Soltamox. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Breast Cancer

Adults: The recommended dose is 20 to 40 milligrams (mg) a day. Dosages over 20 mg/day should be given in the morning and evening.

DCIS

Adults: The recommended dose is 20 mg a day for 5 years.

Reduction in Breast Cancer Risk

Adults: The recommended dose is 20 mg a day for 5 years.

How should I take Soltamox?

Dosages over 20 mg/day should be given in the morning and evening (20 mg of Soltamox is approximately 2 teaspoons of the oral solution).

What should I avoid while taking Soltamox?

Do not become pregnant while taking or within 2 months of taking Soltamox. Use appropriate nonhormonal birth control methods, such as IUDs, diaphragms with spermicide, or condoms.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Soltamox?

If Soltamox is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Soltamox with any of the following: cyclosporine, blood thinners, diltiazem, erythromycin, letrozole, nifedipine, and rifampin.

What are the possible side effects of Soltamox?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blood clots in veins or lungs, blurry vision, hot flashes, liver problems, stroke, vaginal discharge (sometimes bloody)

Can I receive Soltamox if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Soltamox if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It may cause harm to your unborn child or pass into breast milk.

How should I store Soltamox?

Store at room temperature and avoid temperatures above 77 degrees. Do not freeze or refrigerate; protect from light. Throw away any remaining medication after 3 months of opening.