abstract: Managing menopausal symptoms and depression in tamoxifen users: Implications of drug and medicinal interactions

OBJECTIVE: Tamoxifen, a medication used in the treatment of breast cancer, often induces menopausal symptoms. Certain medications and natural supplements taken or prescribed to alleviate tamoxifen-induced hot flashes and depressive states in women with breast cancer interact with tamoxifen. This paper reviews potentially problematic interactions and offers treatment recommendations.
CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians should remain cautious about using strong inhibitors and/or inducers of cytochrome 2D6 and 3A4 concomitantly with tamoxifen. Use of natural menopausal supplements and diets rich in isoflavones should not be encouraged in tamoxifen users until more data is available. There are however safe treatments for hot flashes and depression in tamoxifen users.