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Tamoxifen-Related Adverse Effects in High-Risk Woman Patients: A Narrative Review OF Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Breast cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Tamoxifen is a commonly used and effective first-line hormonal therapy for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Despite its proven ability to reduce recurrence and mortality, its use is associated with various adverse events (AEs) that may affect patient adherence. This review aims to identify the side effects of tamoxifen in women at high risk of breast cancer and in breast cancer patients based on selected clinical studies. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Scopus for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Of 141 records identified, 7 studies (n = 7 RCTs) were included, with sample sizes ranging from 167 to 7,154 participants and tamoxifen doses from 2.5 to 20 mg/day. Common AEs included hot flushes, vaginal discharge, menstrual disorders and nausea, while serious AEs included thromboembolism and endometrial cancer. Higher doses were associated with increased AE risk, particularly in premenopausal women. Low-dose tamoxifen showed a more favorable safety profile, although comparative efficacy remains uncertain. Personalized dosing, proactive monitoring, and patient education are essential, and further research is needed to evaluate long-term safety and optimize individualized treatment strategies.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.37311/jsscr.v8i3.33172
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