Nolvadex is a drug that is prescribed for breast cancer, which has spread to other parts. The drug, along with other medicines, is also used for treating other kinds of cancers. Nolvadex is also given to women who are at high risk for breast cancer and also prescribed for reducing the risk of developing breast cancer for women with DCIS.

Nolvadex belongs to a group of drugs known as Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators. The active ingredient in Nolvadex is tamoxifen citrate and this acts on the estrogen receptors and locks it from growing.

The drug can be taken with food and without food but take it with a full glass of water. Always follow the doctor’s direction while taking Nolvadex. Never go for larger doses or less or for longer periods unless your doctor directs. Always complete the course of the medication and do not stop in the middle of a course as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Never miss any dosages. In case you forget to take a dose, take it as you remember it. But never have the missed drug if it is time for your next dose. Do not mix two doses of Nolvadex. Well, if you suspect an overdose, contact the doctor immediately.

It is better to inform your doctor about all your health conditions, including your diseases and the allergies that you have, before the doctor prescribes Nolvadex.

Inform the physician if you have allergies to any particular substance, food or medicine. Do not hide from the doctor if you have a history of stroke, blood clot, cataract or if you have liver disease or if you have high levels of triglycerides in blood or if you are receiving radiation treatment.

The drug is FDA pregnancy category D, which means that the medicine can cause harm to the unborn babe. If pregnant or hoping to get pregnant, you should not take Nolvadex. It is better not to get pregnant while you are on Nolvadex medication. Moreover, pregnant women should also not handle the drug as it may enter the body through the skin. Newborn babes should never be breast fed if the mother is taking Nolvadex medicine.

Though the drug is effective against breast cancer, there is an increased possibility for the development of endometrial or uterine cancer. If you come across menstrual changes, vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain while using Nolvadex, you have to contact the doctor without any delay, as these may be the symptoms of uterine cancer. Well, you have to be careful if you come across such symptoms even after stopping the drug.

Nolvadex also comes with side effects but it is not that every person who takes the drug is liable for such side effects. Well, you may come across allergic reactions like hives, breathing difficulty and swelling. Some of the serious side effects that come with Nolvadex include sudden numbness, headache, vision and speech problems, chest pain, coughing up blood, swelling in legs, irregular menstrual periods and unusual vaginal bleeding.