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Soltamox

Generic name: tamoxifen [ta-MOX-i-fen]

Drug classes: hormones, antineoplastics, selective estrogen receptor modulators

What is Soltamox?

Soltamox can be used to treat certain types of cancerous breasts, both in women and men. Soltamox is used to reduce a woman's risk of developing breast carcinoma if they have a high risk (such as having a family history). This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Soltamox.

Side effects of Soltamox

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat. Please seek medical assistance immediately.

Soltamox may increase your risk of stroke or blood clots. If you experience this, call your doctor immediately.

  • Signs of stroke: sudden numbness, weakness, headaches, slurred words, vision problems, balance issues;
  • Signs of a blood clot in the lungs: chest pain, sudden cough, or shortness of breath; dizziness; coughing blood.
  • Signs of a deep blood clot in the body include pain, swelling, or warmth in a leg.

Call your doctor immediately if you:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding and discharge
  • Blurred vision, red eyes, or pain in the eye
  • Changes in your menstrual cycle;
  • You may feel pressure or pain in the pelvic region.
  • A new breast lump.
  • Liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pains, itching, fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-coloured stools, jaundice
  • High blood calcium: confusion, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite constipation. Increased thirst or urination.

Soltamox side effects may include:

  • Vaginal bleeding or discharge;
  • Hot Flashes
  • Weight gain or swelling;
  • Nausea;
  • Mood changes

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warnings

Soltamox can increase your risk for uterine carcinoma, cancer of the liver, or stroke.

Before you take this drug

If you have an allergy to Soltamox, then it is best not to use this product. Can harm an unborn child. A pregnancy test may be needed to confirm that you are not pregnant. Use birth control during your treatment with Soltamox and for 2 months following the last dose. Inform your doctor immediately if you fall pregnant.

Use a barrier birth control method to prevent pregnancy when using Soltamox. These include a condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap. Avoid hormonal birth control such as birth control pills, injections, skin patches, vaginal rings, and implants.

Soltamox should not be used to reduce breast cancer risk if you are also taking warfarin. (Coumadin or Jantoven).

Tell your doctor about any of the following:

  • A stroke or blood clot
  • Liver disease
  • High cholesterol (or triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood);
  • Cataracts;
  • Chemotherapy
  • If you also use anastrozole or letrozole.

Soltamox can increase your risk for uterine or liver cancers, strokes, and blood clots in the lungs, all of which are potentially fatal.Speak to your physician about any risks you are exposed to. Do not breastfeed for 3 months after the last dose of Soltamox. No one under the age of 18 is allowed to use this product.

How to take Soltamox?

Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label. Use the syringe provided or a dosing device to measure liquid medicines (not a spoon). Take it with or without food. This medicine may be needed for up to 10 years.

While using Soltamox, you should have regular mammograms and physical examinations. You can also self-examine the breasts to check for lumps every month. Soltamox can interfere with certain medical tests. Soltamox can affect the results of certain medical tests. Store away from moisture, light, and heat. Store at room temperature. Do not freeze or refrigerate. You should throw away any liquid medication that is left over 3 months after opening the bottle.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, take an alternative route and don't take what was missed. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.

Interaction with other drug

Soltamox can interact with many drugs. Some drugs shouldn't be taken together. Inform your doctor of all medications you take. Included in this are prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not encompass all potential interactions.