Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic class of tamoxifen?
What are the pharmacological classifications of tamoxifen? (Select all that apply)
What is the primary action of tamoxifen?
Blocks estrogen receptors on breast cancer cells
Which of the following are uses of tamoxifen? (Select all that apply)
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Tamoxifen should be crushed or chewed before administration.
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What category of pregnancy is tamoxifen classified under?
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Which of the following are common adverse effects of tamoxifen? (Select all that apply)
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Which conditions are contraindications for tamoxifen? (Select all that apply)
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Tamoxifen can interfere with __________ and should not be used with certain anticoagulants.
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What is an important teaching point for patients taking tamoxifen regarding contraceptive methods?
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Study Notes
Tamoxifen Overview
- Tamoxifen is classified as an antineoplastic agent, primarily used in cancer therapy.
Pharmacological Classifications
- Functions as a hormonal agent and an estrogen receptor blocker, critical for breast cancer treatment.
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks estrogen receptors on breast cancer cells, inhibiting tumor growth.
Indications for Use
- First-line treatment for metastatic breast cancer, particularly when estrogen receptors are positive.
- The only medication in its class approved for breast cancer prophylaxis.
- Approved as adjunctive therapy post-mastectomy to reduce cancer risk in the contralateral breast.
Administration Alerts
- Recommended administration with food or fluids to minimize gastrointestinal irritation.
- Should never be crushed or chewed; antacids should be avoided for 1-2 hours after oral dosing.
- Classified as Pregnancy Category D, indicating potential risks during pregnancy.
Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, hot flashes, peripheral edema, and vaginal discharge.
- Serious side effects may include confusion, depression, headaches, weakness, and blurred vision.
- Significant risks for pulmonary embolism, stroke, and increased likelihood of endometrial cancer.
- May lead to hypercalcemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.
- Side effects often resemble symptoms of menopause.
Contraindications
- Not recommended for patients on anticoagulants, such as Warfarin, or with a history of endometrial hyperplasia or thromboembolic disease.
- Should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
- Potential interactions with anticoagulants, cytotoxic agents, and estrogens, necessitating careful monitoring during co-administration.
Nursing Interventions
- Regular assessment for bone pain is necessary, as it may indicate complications or disease progression.
Patient Teaching
- Patients should be informed about potential skin lesions and erythema, which may resolve temporarily.
- Importance of reporting symptoms such as bone pain, weight gain, peripheral edema, and any unusual systemic symptoms to healthcare providers.
- Patients may induce ovulation; advised to use non-hormonal contraceptive methods like diaphragms or condoms.
- Encourage reporting menstrual irregularities, vaginal bleeding, or pelvic discomfort, as these may indicate serious side effects.
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Description
Explore the essential flashcards on Tamoxifen, a key therapeutic agent in treating breast cancer. This quiz will cover its therapeutic class, pharmacological details, actions, and uses. Perfect for students and professionals in medical fields.
