Tamoxifen
How It Works
Tamoxifen is the most commonly used Reference hormone therapy Opens New Window for the treatment of Reference breast cancer Opens New Window.
Many women have breast cancer that tests positive for Reference estrogen receptors (ER+) Opens New Window. This means that Reference estrogen Opens New Window promotes the growth of the breast cancer cells. Tamoxifen blocks the effects of estrogen on these cells. It is often called an "anti-estrogen."
Tamoxifen slows or stops the growth of cancer cells that are already present in the body. It helps keep the original breast cancer from coming back and helps prevent new cancer in the opposite breast. It also reduces the risk of breast cancer in women who have a high risk for this disease.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: June 28, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology |
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