Breast Cancer Tamoxifen

Breast Cancer Tamoxifen, is a new treatment alternative for women at high risk for breast cancer. In order to reduce the risk or recurrence of breast cancer, Tamoxifen has been used for several years. Now a new drug that was introduced to reduce the risk of osteoporosis has shown good results in reducing the risk of breast cancer. Tamoxifen has proven to reduce the risk of breast cancer by 50 percent. It is regularly given to postoperative surgery patients of breast cancer. Normally, for a minimum of five years, those patients take the drug.

Raloxifene, a drug developed to treat osteoporosis has been found to be as effective as Tamoxifen and is considered safer. Raloxifene shows promise in effective use against breast cancer and causes fewer blood clots that could be life threatening and fewer cases of uterine cancer. Fewer cataracts are caused due to Raloxifene, which is clouding the lens of the eye. The study was conducted throughout the United States by the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Breast Cancer Tamoxifen – Side Affects

Both Tamoxifen and Raloxifene produce side affects. Women who took Tamoxifen had bladder control problems, leg cramps and gynecological problems. Women who took Raloxifene had pain during sexual intercourse, weight gain, and more muscle and bone aches. Most women who have been on these two drugs claim the side effects didn’t prevent them from enjoying a good quality of life.

Tests and trials continue for Raloxifene and researchers state in about one year, it should have government approval. In reducing the risk of breast cancer, this new drug will give woman two choices. Raloxifene also has another positive side effect. It reduces bad cholesterol and doesn’t affect the good cholesterol

For the women who have an increased risk of breast cancer, this is an important step in the right direction. Older women who are postmenopausal are considered to be at increased risk and will have the choice of Tamoxifen or the safer Raloxifene.

Dosage of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene

Raloxifene is taken once a day. If you forget to take a dose, you should wait until time for your next scheduled dose. You do not need to try to make up for the missed dosage.

Stored at room temperature, the drug can be taken either with or without food. You should avoid drinking alcohol or smoking while taking Raloxifene. Some drugs may cause an interaction with Raloxifene including reducing the effectiveness of the other drugs. Women who are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast-feeding should not use the drug Raloxifene.

It also should not be used if you are going to be stationary for a time. It does have the inclination to increase the risk of blood clots. Your doctor may want to adjust the dosage, if you are going on a long trip or recovering from surgery.

Although is not considered as risky as Tamoxifen, Raloxifene does increase the possibility of developing blood clots. To advise you if you are a good candidate for consuming this drug, your medical doctor is the best one.