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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Tamoxafene
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Tamoxafene
by kcapp, Jul 26, 2006 12:00AM
I have been on Taxmoxafine(sorry about spelling)for about 2 months now. I am experiencing depression and very bad hot flashes at night. My onc wants me to go on Paxil. I have done some research on Paxil and I am scared to really start taking this. I don't want to be addicted to something that years from now I can't get off of. The dosage is only 20mg. Is there another drug that would do the same as Paxil but without the addiction part? Thanks kc
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-rf, Jul 27, 2006 12:00AM
Dear kcapp: Paxil (also known as paroxetine) is a type of antidepressant called SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). These medications can be very effective in treating depression and sometimes may help with hot flashes. These drugs are NOT addictive. However, they can take several weeks before they are effective and should not be stopped abruptly. In other words, a patient who has been on paxil for a while should be weaned off the medication so that the body can get used to not having the medication. One concern, however, is that paroxetine may have a drug interaction with tamoxifen, interefering with the way the body uses the tamoxifen which could theoretically reduce its efficacy. Other antidepressants, such as venlafaxine (Effexor), which work similarly do not appear to have this interaction and may be preferred for individuals who take tamoxifen.
Member Comments (2)
by Happy4825, Jul 26, 2006 12:00AM
To: Kcaap
Tamoxifeen is a drug that has been used a long time, it has side effects that are hard to deal with. I am on Arimidex a newer drug that gives the same protection that Tamonxifeen but it has less side effects. I have been on it for six months and find this is true.
