How does tamoxifen affect the body?
Tamoxifen is a SERM that is used to treat breast cancer. It may be taken for about 5 years after a breast cancer diagnosis. This treatment helps prevent a recurrence of the cancer. It may also be used to prevent breast cancer in women who have many risk factors for breast cancer. However, tamoxifen can increase the risk of endometrial or uterine cancer. Women who take tamoxifen should be monitored by their healthcare providers for signs of uterine cancer. What are the side effects of SERMs? Following are current known side effects of raloxifene: • blood clots in the legs and, rarely, in the lungs • increased rate of hot flashes • leg cramps Current known side effects of tamoxifen include the following: • blood clots in the legs and, rarely, in the lungs • hot flashes • rarely, uterine cancer Who should NOT use SERMs? Raloxifene should not be used in women who are at increased risk of developing blood clots. This includes elderly women, bedridden women, and women with a history of blood
