provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Tamoxifen Coupon - Tamoxifen 20mg tablet

tamoxifen

Generic Nolvadex
Used for Breast Cancer
Used for Breast Cancer

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It’s used to treat early stage and advanced or metastatic hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer in males and females. It’s also used to lower the risk for breast cancer in females who have a higher risk for breast cancer. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is an oral tablet that's taken by mouth, usually once a day. Common side effects of this medication include hot flashes, vaginal discharge, and swelling in the arms and legs, which might lead to weight gain. Brand name Nolvadex is no longer available.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Julia Lee, PharmD, BCOP
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
Last reviewed on April 21, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)?

What is Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) used for?

How Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) works

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). Some breast cancers depend on hormones like estrogen to grow. These breast cancers are called hormone receptor-positive (HR+).

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) treats HR+ breast cancer by blocking estrogen from working on breast cancer tissue. By doing so, tamoxifen (Nolvadex) prevents cancer cells from getting the fuel needed to grow, and stops the cancer from spreading.

Are you looking for information on Soltamox (tamoxifen) solution instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsNolvadex (brand name no longer available)
Drug ClassSelective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) essentials

tamoxifen: woman talking with doctor 1432735081

How Does Tamoxifen Work for Breast Cancer?

Written by Jill Barat, PharmD
estrogen agonist antagonists: breast cancer: doctor speaking to patient 1271564717

Raloxifene vs. Tamoxifen: 6 Ways These Breast Cancer Medications Compare and How to Choose

Written by Rachel Feaster, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$70.03(save 75.15%)
GoodRx discount
$17.40
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Hot flashes (up to 80%)
  • Vaginal discharge (up to 55%)
  • Swelling in the arms and legs (up to 32%)
  • Nausea (up to 26%)
  • Irregular or no monthly bleeding (up to 25%)
  • Vaginal bleeding (up to 23%)
  • Weight loss (23%)
  • Skin changes (19%)

Other Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Cataracts
  • Mood changes
  • Muscle, joint, or bone pain
  • Weakness or tiredness
  • Breast pain

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Blood clots in your veins or lungs: pain or swelling in your arms or legs, trouble breathing, chest pain, fast heartbeat
  • Stroke: severe headache, sudden confusion, weakness on one side of your body, or trouble speaking or walking
  • Cancers of the uterus: abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, pain or pressure in the area below the belly button (pelvis)

Source: DailyMed

More on Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) side effects

Health: Tamoxifen: side effects tamoxifen

9 Tamoxifen Side Effects You Should Know About

Written by Sonja Jacobsen, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

bladder pain

blindness

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

bloody or cloudy urine

blurred vision

chills

confusion

cough

decrease in the amount of urine

decrease in height

decreased vision

difficult or labored breathing

difficult, burning, or painful urination

dizziness

fainting

fast heartbeat

fever

frequent urge to urinate

heavy non-menstrual vaginal bleeding

hoarseness

increased clear or white vaginal discharge

lower back or side pain

noisy, rattling breathing

pain in the back, ribs, arms, or legs

painful or difficult urination

pale skin

rapid weight gain

rapid, shallow breathing

stopping of menstrual bleeding

tightness in the chest

tingling of the hands or feet

troubled breathing at rest

troubled breathing with exertion

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusual weight gain or loss

Less common

Abnormal growth filled with fluid or semisolid material

black, tarry stools

bleeding gums

bloating

blurred vision

breast pain, redness, or swelling

chest pain

clear or bloody discharge from the nipple

cough producing mucus

dimpling of the breast skin

feeling of warmth or heat

flushing or redness of the skin, especially on the face and neck headache

inverted nipple

joint pain or stiffness

large amount of cholesterol in the blood

lump in the breast or under the arm

nervousness

persistent crusting or scaling of the nipple

pinpoint red spots on the skin

pounding in the ears

skin rash or itching over the entire body

slow heartbeat

sore on the skin of the breast that does not heal

stomach or pelvic discomfort, aching, or heaviness

Rare

Anxiety

bluish color of the skin

tenderness

Incidence not known

Blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin

constipation

dark urine

diarrhea

general feeling of discomfort or illness

indigestion

muscle pain

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or genitals

loss of appetite

nausea

pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

red, irritated eyes

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

thickening of bronchial secretions

vomiting

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Back pain

belching

body aches or pain

bone pain

congestion

depression

difficulty in moving

dryness of the throat

hair loss or thinning of hair

heartburn

joint swelling

lack or loss of strength

mood changes

muscle cramps or stiffness

passing of gas

redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

runny nose

shivering

skin changes

stomach upset, fullness, or pain

sudden sweating

tender, swollen glands in the neck

trouble in swallowing

trouble sleeping

voice changes

Less common

Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

itching of the vagina or genital area

pain during sexual intercourse

Incidence not known

Decreased interest in sexual intercourse

inability to have or keep an erection

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

thumbs-up

Pros

Usually taken once a day

Oral tablet is available as a lower-cost generic

Might help prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) after menopause

thumbs-down

Cons

Might raise your risk for blood clots, uterine cancer, and cataracts

Can’t take while pregnant or breastfeeding

Usually taken long term (at least 5 years)

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

pharmacist

  • Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can be taken with or without food.

    • It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex). Doing so can worsen certain side effects of tamoxifen (Nolvadex), such as hot flashes. Drinking can raise the level of estrogen in the body, and cause tamoxifen (Nolvadex) to not work as well in treating cancer. If stopping alcohol is difficult for you, talk with your care team so they can recommend resources to help you quit.

      • Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can cause hot flashes. Talk with your oncologist if these symptoms are very uncomfortable. They can recommend ways to ease your symptoms, such as wearing loose fitting layers that you can remove easily and drinking more water throughout the day, instead of alcohol or caffeine.

        • You might experience swelling in the arms and legs (edema) after starting tamoxifen (Nolvadex). To ease swelling, consider wearing compression stockings to keep your blood flowing. Choosing a low-salt diet can also help.

          • In rare situations, tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can cause blood clots, even 2 to 3 months after stopping the medication. If you notice symptoms of blood clots, such as pain or swelling in your arms and legs, chest pain, or severe headache, get medical help right away.

            • In very rare cases, people taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex) for breast cancer developed cancer in the uterus later on. If you notice signs of uterine cancer, such as unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding or spotting, stomach pain, let your oncologist know. You'll need immediate medical attention.

              • Talk with your oncologist if you're thinking about breastfeeding. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can pass into breast milk, which might pose a risk to breastfeeding infants. Because of this risk, you shouldn’t breastfeed while taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and for 3 months after your last dose.

                More on Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) tips

                Tamoxifen: doctor explaining pill bottle to cancer patient home visit 1364036985

                Is Tamoxifen Chemotherapy? Plus 4 More Tamoxifen FAQs

                Written by Christina Aungst, PharmD
                Tamoxifen: Alcohol: cancer patient holding pill bottle 1204104890

                Can I Drink Alcohol With Tamoxifen?

                Written by Sonia Amin Thomas, PharmD, BCOP
                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

                Is tamoxifen (Nolvadex) chemotherapy?
                Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) isn’t chemotherapy; it's a type of hormone therapy. Chemotherapy works by killing fast-growing cells in the body, including cancer cells. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) doesn’t work that way. Instead, it works by blocking estrogen (a hormone) from targeting cancer cells. That's why it's able to treat certain hormone-sensitive (HR+) breast cancer that grows when there's estrogen around. Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) fights breast cancer by stopping estrogen from fueling the cancer.
                Is tamoxifen (Nolvadex) an aromatase inhibitor?
                No, tamoxifen (Nolvadex) isn’t an aromatase inhibitor; it’s a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). Aromatase inhibitors, such as anastrozole (Arimidex), stop the body from making estrogen. SERMs, like tamoxifen (Nolvadex), block estrogen’s effect on breast cancer cells. Both aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen (Nolvadex) are used to treat breast cancer. But tamoxifen (Nolvadex) has an additional FDA-approval to lower the risk of breast cancer in females who are at high risk. Aromatase inhibitors aren't FDA-approved to lower breast cancer risk, but oncologists sometimes prescribe them off-label for this purpose because research suggests they can help as well. If you’d like to learn more about options for your specific breast cancer, talk with your oncologist.
                How long do I need to take tamoxifen (Nolvadex) for?
                Your care team will talk with you about how long you’ll need to take tamoxifen (Nolvadex). Usually, it’s recommended to take tamoxifen (Nolvadex) or other hormone therapy for at least 5 years and sometimes up to 10 years. Don’t stop taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex) without first talking with your oncologist.
                What are the worst side effects of tamoxifen (Nolvadex)?
                Not everyone will have the same side effect experience with tamoxifen (Nolvadex), so what's considered the "worst side effects" might differ from person to person. But one of the most common side effects of tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is hot flashes, which can be very uncomfortable. Your oncologist can give you tips to ease hot flashes, such as wearing loose-fitting layers and avoiding certain foods or drinks that might worsen hot flashes, like caffeine or spicy foods. Another bothersome side effect of tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is having more vaginal discharge. Your oncologist might recommend you to wear cotton underwear that’s more breathable and to use panty liners in the underwear to absorb the extra discharge. Talk with your oncology team if you have questions on any specific tamoxifen (Nolvadex) side effect or risk.
                Does tamoxifen (Nolvadex) cause hair loss?
                Yes, tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can cause hair loss, but it isn’t a common side effect. When people did experience hair loss, hair thinning was more typical than complete hair loss. Talk with your oncologist if you’re concerned about hair change with tamoxifen (Nolvadex) treatment. They can let you know about different options to help, such as using wigs, scarves, or turbans.
                Does tamoxifen (Nolvadex) cause uterine cancer?
                Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can cause changes to the cells lining the uterus, which can raise the chance of developing uterine cancer. Although rare, studies show that people tend to have a higher risk for developing uterine cancer if they’re 50 years or older, have already started menopause, have taken tamoxifen (Nolvadex) for a longer period of time, or are taking higher than tamoxifen (Nolvadex) 20 mg a day. But, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) still recommend tamoxifen (Nolvadex), since the benefit it offers in preventing breast cancer is still higher than the risk of developing uterine cancer. Talk with your oncologist if you have concerns about the risk of developing uterine cancer while using tamoxifen (Nolvadex).
                Does tamoxifen (Nolvadex) cause weight gain?
                In clinical studies, some people did report weight gain after starting tamoxifen (Nolvadex). But it's unclear whether this weight gain is caused by tamoxifen (Nolvadex) or other factors. One possible reason for this weight gain might be swelling from fluid buildup in the arms and feet (peripheral edema), a relatively common tamoxifen (Nolvadex) side effect. If you notice leg swelling while taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex), try elevating your legs or wearing compression stockings to ease the swelling. If you have more questions about how tamoxifen (Nolvadex) might affect your weight, talk with your oncologist.
                Is tamoxifen (Nolvadex) safe to take during pregnancy?
                Talk with your oncologist if you're pregnant or considering becoming pregnant before starting this medication. This is because tamoxifen (Nolvadex) might cause harm to your unborn baby. If you're able to become pregnant, you should use non-hormonal birth control, like condoms or a diaphragm, while taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and for 2 months after the last dose. Let your oncologist know right away if you become pregnant while taking this medication.
                GoodRxEducationalIcon

                How to save using GoodRx

                Compare Prices
                1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                Select your free coupon
                2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                Show coupon to your pharmacist
                3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                Get free couponLearn more
                warings-icon

                What are the risks and warnings for Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)?

                Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Blood clots

                • Risk factors: Receiving chemotherapy at the same time | Past blood clots

                  Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can raise your risk of blood clots. Blood clots can develop in any part of the body, including in the veins in your legs (deep venous thrombosis), lungs (pulmonary embolism) and brain (stroke). In clinical studies, people have reported blood clots anytime between 1 month to 5 years after starting treatment. This risk is higher for people receiving tamoxifen (Nolvadex) at the same time as chemotherapy. If you’re having symptoms of blood clots, which can include swelling, pain, or redness in your legs, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, seek medical attention right away.

                  risk-warning

                  Changes in the uterus and risk of uterine cancer

                  • Risk factors: Taking tamoxifen for 2 years or longer

                    Though not common, there have been reports of people developing ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and uterine cancer after starting tamoxifen (Nolvadex). The reason for this isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought that tamoxifen (Nolvadex) acts like estrogen and can cause changes to the lining of the uterus. After you start tamoxifen (Nolvadex), your oncologist might ask you to get yearly gynecology exams. Let your healthcare provider know if you have any abnormal vaginal bleeding or bloody discharge, changes in your period, and pain or pressure in the area below your belly button (pelvis). These can be signs of uterine cancer. If you’ve had surgery to remove the uterus, you aren’t at risk for uterine cancer.

                    risk-warning

                    Eye problems

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can raise your chance of developing cataracts and other eye problems. Let your provider know if you experience any changes in your vision, like slow blurring of your vision or changes in how you see color.

                    risk-warning

                    Liver problems

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) might cause changes in liver enzyme levels. On rare occasions, people have reported serious liver problems and liver cancer, which can be life-threatening. Your healthcare provider will monitor your liver health regularly through blood draws while you're taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex). If you develop liver problems, your healthcare provider might stop your treatment. Let your provider know if you experience yellowing of the eyes or skin, loss of appetite, or tiredness, as these can be signs of liver problems.

                    risk-warning

                    High calcium levels in the blood

                    Some people taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex) for metastatic breast cancer that has spread to the bones have reported high blood calcium levels within a few weeks of starting treatment. Your oncologist might check your blood calcium level regularly after you start tamoxifen (Nolvadex). If your level is very high, they’ll ask you to stop this medication. Symptoms of high blood calcium levels can include nausea, tiredness, and muscle weakness.

                    risk-warning

                    Low platelet count (risk of bleeding)

                    Though rare, some people have reported low platelet count after starting tamoxifen (Nolvadex). It’s unclear whether the low platelet count is caused by tamoxifen (Nolvadex) or by other factors. But having a low platelet level raises your risk for bleeding. Your oncologist will check your blood counts regularly to see if your levels are within a safe range. Let your healthcare team know if you notice bruises that won’t go away or bleeding that’s difficult to stop because these might be signs of low platelet count.

                    risk-warning

                    Harm to unborn baby

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. If you’re able to become pregnant, you should use non-hormonal birth control, like condoms or a diaphragm, while taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and for 2 months after the last dose. Let your provider know right away if you become pregnant during this time.

                    dosage

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 30 tablets of 20mg of Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) is $17.40 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 75.15% off the average retail price of $70.03.
                    tablet
                    Tablet
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    10mg90 tablets$31.50$0.35
                    20mg30 tablets$17.40$0.58

                    Typical dosing for Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

                    • Metastatic HR+ breast cancer: The typical dosing is 20 mg to 40 mg by mouth once daily. If your total daily dose is higher than 20 mg, your oncologist will ask you to divide it into 2 smaller doses and take it by mouth twice daily in the morning and evening.

                    • Early stage HR+ breast cancer after surgery: The typical dosing is 20 mg by mouth once daily for 5 to 10 years.

                    • Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): The typical dosing is 20 mg by mouth once daily for 5 years.

                    • Lowering the risk of getting breast cancer: The typical dosing is 20 mg by mouth once daily for 5 years.

                    More on Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) dosage forms

                    Tamoxifen: tamoxifen dosage

                    Tamoxifen Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                    Written by Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP
                    interactions

                    Interactions between Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and other drugs

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Tamoxifen (Nolvadex). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    • Aldesleukin
                    drug-cost

                    How much does Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) (generic)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $17.40

                    (save 75.15%)
                    View prices & coupons
                    contraindications-icon

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) will not be safe for you to take.

                    • Females at high risk of developing breast cancer, and either currently taking warfarin (Coumadin) or have had blood clots in the past

                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Tamoxifen (Nolvadex). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
                    Used for:
                    $17.40 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Toremifene (Fareston)
                    Used for:

                    • Metastatic HR+ breast cancer or tumors in which estrogen status is not known in postmenopausal females

                    $308.15 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Fulvestrant (Faslodex)
                    Used for:

                    • Hormone receptor (HR)-positive, advanced or metastatic breast cancer

                    $145.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)?

                    Read on for tamoxifen dosage information for breast cancer, including typical dosages, adjustments for health conditions, and what to do if you miss a dose.

                    Tamoxifen Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                    Read on for tamoxifen dosage information for breast cancer, including typical dosages, adjustments for health conditions, and what to do if you miss a dose.
                    The jump in IVF medication prices adds to the cost of the already expensive in vitro fertilization process, and many drugs used in the procedure aren’t covered by insurance. Still, manufacturer coupons and GoodRx offer some ways to shave off the price.

                    In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Medication Prices Rose by 84% Over the Past 10 Years

                    The jump in IVF medication prices adds to the cost of the already expensive in vitro fertilization process, and many drugs used in the procedure aren’t covered by insurance. Still, manufacturer coupons and GoodRx offer some ways to shave off the price.
                    Many medications may be used in early breast cancer treatment. Medications that may be prescribed include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and anti-HER2 drugs.

                    Early Breast Cancer Treatments: Your GoodRx Guide to 5 Common Medications

                    Many medications may be used in early breast cancer treatment. Medications that may be prescribed include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and anti-HER2 drugs.
                    Tamoxifen blocks estrogen receptors, which stops the growth of some breast cancer cells. Learn more about how tamoxifen works with GoodRx.

                    How Does Tamoxifen Work for Breast Cancer?

                    Tamoxifen blocks estrogen receptors, which stops the growth of some breast cancer cells. Learn more about how tamoxifen works with GoodRx.
                    Tamoxifen is not chemotherapy, but an oral hormone treatment for breast cancer. Here’s what you should know if you’re taking tamoxifen for breast cancer.

                    Is Tamoxifen Chemotherapy? Plus 4 More Tamoxifen FAQs

                    Tamoxifen is not chemotherapy, but an oral hormone treatment for breast cancer. Here’s what you should know if you’re taking tamoxifen for breast cancer.
                    Raloxifene and tamoxifen are both used to treat or prevent breast cancer. Learn about their differences and when they’re used with this guide from GoodRx.

                    Raloxifene vs. Tamoxifen: 6 Ways These Breast Cancer Medications Compare and How to Choose

                    Raloxifene and tamoxifen are both used to treat or prevent breast cancer. Learn about their differences and when they’re used with this guide from GoodRx.
                    Aromatase inhibitors can help treat some types of breast cancer by lowering estrogen levels. Learn what some common side effects are and how the treatment works.

                    9 Side Effects of Aromatase Inhibitors (Like Anastrozole) and How to Manage Them

                    Aromatase inhibitors can help treat some types of breast cancer by lowering estrogen levels. Learn what some common side effects are and how the treatment works.
                    Verzenio treats certain people with early- and advanced-stage breast cancer. Learn how Verzenio works, how effective it is, and its common side effects.

                    What to Know About Verzenio (Abemaciclib) for Early Breast Cancer

                    Verzenio treats certain people with early- and advanced-stage breast cancer. Learn how Verzenio works, how effective it is, and its common side effects.
                    Triple-negative breast cancer is a type of breast cancer lacking the three most common hormone or molecular receptors. This makes it harder to treat. Triple-negative breast cancer is more aggressive, but treatment options are available. Learn more about triple-negative cancer, including how it’s diagnosed and treated, with GoodRx.

                    What Is Triple-Negative Breast Cancer?

                    Triple-negative breast cancer is a type of breast cancer lacking the three most common hormone or molecular receptors. This makes it harder to treat. Triple-negative breast cancer is more aggressive, but treatment options are available. Learn more about triple-negative cancer, including how it’s diagnosed and treated, with GoodRx.
                    Tamoxifen is effective in lowering the risk of breast cancer recurrence and improving survival rates. But it can also cause a wide range of side effects.

                    9 Tamoxifen Side Effects You Should Know About

                    Tamoxifen is effective in lowering the risk of breast cancer recurrence and improving survival rates. But it can also cause a wide range of side effects.
                    images

                    Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) images

                    White Round 274 And M - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "274" And "M".White Round 274 And M - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round Wpi And 2233 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "2233" And "Wpi".White Round Wpi And 2233 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round 93 782 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "93 782".White Round 93 782 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Myx 643".White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Myx 643".White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round T20 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "T20".White Round T20 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Myx 643".White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Myx 643".White Round Myx 643 - Tamoxifen Citrate 20mg Tablet

                    Get savings updates for Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

                    Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                    By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2023). Endometrial cancer.

                    Committee on Gynecologic Practice. (2024). Tamoxifen and uterine cancer. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

                    Cuzick, J., et al. (2019). Use of anastrozole for breast cancer prevention (IBIS-II): Long-term results of a randomised controlled trial. The Lancet.

                    View All References (6)

                    Fisher, B., et al. (2005). Tamoxifen for the prevention of breast cancer: Current status of the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project P-1 study. Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

                    Ghanavati, M., et al. (2023). Tamoxifen use and risk of endometrial cancer in breast cancer patients: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Cancer Reports.

                    Mayne Pharma Commercial LLC. (2023). Tamoxifen citrate tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2024). Ductal carcinoma in situ.

                    National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2024). Invasive breast cancer.

                    Park, J., et al. (2014). Pattern alopecia during hormonal anticancer therapy in patients with breast cancer. Annals of Dermatology.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                    Was this page helpful?

                    Compare other Breast Cancer drugs

                    Tamoxifen vs ClomidArimidex vs ClomidClomid vs AromasinClomid vs HcgClomid vs MetforminClomid vs NolvadexClomid vs TestosteroneFarxiga vs MetforminGlyset vs MetforminGlyxambi vs MetforminGonal F vs ClomidInvokana vs MetforminJardiance vs MetforminLetrozole vs ClomidMetaglip vs MetforminMetformin vs ActosMetformin vs AfrezzaMetformin vs AvandiaMetformin vs GlucovanceMetformin vs JanuviaMetformin vs MounjaroMetformin vs PhentermineMetformin vs TradjentaMetformin vs VictozaMetformin vs WegovyNesina vs MetforminOzempic vs MetforminPrandimet vs MetforminRybelsus vs MetforminToujeo vs Metformin
                    View More

                    Browse medications

                    View All

                    Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.