Tamoxifen
Two tamoxifen products sit on this shelf: Nolvadex, available at 10 mg and 20 mg, and Tamoxifen Tablets at 20 mg. Both are tablets listed for breast cancer.
Tamoxifen Tablets
Breast Cancer
20mg
Tamoxifen tablets for breast cancer. It blocks oestrogen that some breast cancers rely on to grow.
Key points
- Tamoxifen is an antioestrogen: it blocks oestrogen from binding to receptors in breast tumour tissue, which slows or stops the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers.
- The label carries a boxed warning for women using tamoxifen to reduce breast cancer risk: uterine malignancies, stroke and pulmonary embolism have been reported, and some were fatal. In women already diagnosed with breast cancer, the benefits outweigh these risks.
- Do not take tamoxifen citrate if you have a history of deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, or if you need coumarin-type anticoagulant therapy alongside it.
Common questions about Tamoxifen
What separates Nolvadex from Tamoxifen Tablets on this shelf?
Nolvadex is the original brand and comes in both 10 mg and 20 mg strengths. Tamoxifen Tablets is the generic version, listed at 20 mg only. Both contain tamoxifen citrate as the active ingredient and fall under Oncology Support.
Does tamoxifen affect cholesterol or bone density?
In postmenopausal women, tamoxifen reduces total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels by around 10 to 20%. It does not adversely affect bone mineral density, which sets it apart from some other hormonal treatments that thin the bones.
Further reading
What is tamoxifen used for?
Tamoxifen is used for breast cancer. It blocks oestrogen from binding to receptors in breast tumour tissue.
How does tamoxifen work?
Tamoxifen is an antioestrogen. It competitively binds to oestrogen receptors in target tissues, blocking gene transcription in hormone-sensitive cells.
What are the side effects of tamoxifen?
Common side effects include hot flushes, nausea and fatigue. Serious side effects include thromboembolism, endometrial carcinoma and severe retinopathy, which need immediate medical attention. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
Can tamoxifen be taken with other medicines?
Tamoxifen can interact with warfarin, rifampicin and paroxetine. It should not be taken with coumarin-type anticoagulant therapy. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it with any other medicine.
Who should not take tamoxifen?
Tamoxifen should not be taken during pregnancy, if you have a history of deep vein thrombosis, or if you need coumarin-type anticoagulant therapy alongside it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
In which products can I find tamoxifen?
On Direct Meds, tamoxifen comes as Nolvadex and Tamoxifen Tablets. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does tamoxifen cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Do I need a prescription for tamoxifen in South Africa?
No, not online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order tamoxifen. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy tamoxifen online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →