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NOLVADEX
(tamoxifen citrate) Tablets
WARNING
For Women with Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) and Women at High Risk for Breast Cancer: Serious and life-threatening events associated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in the risk reduction setting (women at high risk for cancer and women with DCIS) include uterine malignancies, stroke and pulmonary embolism. Incidence rates for these events were estimated from the NSABP P-1 trial (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY-Clinical Studies - Reduction in Breast Cancer Incidence In High Risk Women). Uterine malignancies consist of both endometrial adenocarcinoma (incidence rate per 1,000 women-years of 2.20 for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs 0.71 for placebo) and uterine sarcoma (incidence rate per 1,000 women-years of 0.17 for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs 0.4 for placebo)*. For stroke, the incidence rate per 1,000 women-years was 1.43 for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs 1.00 for placebo**. For pulmonary embolism, the incidence rate per 1,000 women-years was 0.75 for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) versus 0.25 for placebo**.
Some of the strokes, pulmonary emboli, and uterine malignancies were fatal.
Health care providers should discuss the potential benefits versus the potential risks of these serious events with women at high risk of breast cancer and women with DCIS considering NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.
The benefits of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) outweigh its risks in women already diagnosed with breast cancer.
REFERENCES
*Updated long-term follow-up data (median length of follow-up is 6.9 years) from NSABP P-1 study. See WARNINGS: Effects on the Uterus-Endometrial Cancer and Uterine Sarcoma.
**See Table 3 under CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY-Clinical Studies.
NOLVADEX® (tamoxifen citrate) Tablets, a nonsteroidal antiestrogen, are for oral administration. NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) Tablets are available as:
10 mg Tablets
Each tablet contains 15.2 mg of tamoxifen citrate which is equivalent to 10 mg of tamoxifen.
20 mg Tablets
Each tablet contains 30.4 mg of tamoxifen citrate which is equivalent to 20 mg of tamoxifen.
Inactive Ingredients: carboxymethylcellulose calcium, magnesium stearate, mannitol and starch.
Chemically, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is the trans-isomer of a triphenylethylene derivative. The chemical name is (Z)2-[4-(1,2-diphenyl-1-butenyl) phenoxy]-N, N-dimethylethanamine 2 hydroxy-1,2,3- propanetricarboxylate (1:1). The structural and empirical formulas are:
 |
Tamoxifen citrate has a molecular weight of 563.62, the pKa' is 8.85, the equilibrium solubility in water at 37°C is 0.5 mg/mL and in 0.02 N HCl at 37°C, it is 0.2 mg/mL.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is effective in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer in women and men. In premenopausal women with metastatic breast cancer, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is an alternative to oophorectomy or ovarian irradiation. Available evidence indicates that patients whose tumors are estrogen receptor positive are more likely to benefit from NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is indicated for the treatment of node-positive breast cancer in women following total mastectomy or segmental mastectomy, axillary dissection, and breast irradiation. In some NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) adjuvant studies, most of the benefit to date has been in the subgroup with four or more positive axillary nodes.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is indicated for the treatment of axillary node-negative breast cancer in women following total mastectomy or segmental mastectomy, axillary dissection, and breast irradiation.
The estrogen and progesterone receptor values may help to predict whether adjuvant NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy is likely to be beneficial.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) reduces the occurrence of contralateral breast cancer in patients receiving adjuvant NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy for breast cancer.
In women with DCIS, following breast surgery and radiation, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is indicated to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer (see BOXED WARNING at the beginning of the label). The decision regarding therapy with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for the reduction in breast cancer incidence should be based upon an individual assessment of the benefits and risks of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy.
Current data from clinical trials support five years of adjuvant NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy for patients with breast cancer.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is indicated to reduce the incidence of breast cancer in women at high risk for breast cancer. This effect was shown in a study of 5 years planned duration with a median follow-up of 4.2 years. Twenty-five percent of the participants received drug for 5 years. The longer-term effects are not known. In this study, there was no impact of tamoxifen on overall or breast cancer-related mortality (see BOXED WARNING at the beginning of the label).
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is indicated only for high-risk women. “High risk” is defined as women at least 35 years of age with a 5-year predicted risk of breast cancer ≥ 1.67%, as calculated by the Gail Model.
Examples of combinations of factors predicting a 5-year risk ≥ 1.67% are:
For women whose risk factors are not described in the above examples, the Gail Model is necessary to estimate absolute breast cancer risk. Health Care Professionals can obtain a Gail Model Risk Assessment Tool by dialing 1-800-544-2007.
There are insufficient data available regarding the effect of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) on breast cancer incidence in women with inherited mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2) to be able to make specific recommendations on the effectiveness of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in these patients.
After an assessment of the risk of developing breast cancer, the decision regarding therapy with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for the reduction in breast cancer incidence should be based upon an individual assessment of the benefits and risks of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy. In the NSABP P-1 trial, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) treatment lowered the risk of developing breast cancer during the follow-up period of the trial, but did not eliminate breast cancer risk (See Table 3 in CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
For patients with breast cancer, the recommended daily dose is 20-40 mg. Dosages greater than 20 mg per day should be given in divided doses (morning and evening).
In three single agent adjuvant studies in women, one 10 mg NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) tablet was administered two (ECOG and NATO) or three (Toronto) times a day for two years. In the NSABP B-14 adjuvant study in women with node-negative breast cancer, one 10 mg NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) tablet was given twice a day for at least 5 years. Results of the B-14 study suggest that continuation of therapy beyond five years does not provide additional benefit (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). In the EBCTCG 1995 overview, the reduction in recurrence and mortality was greater in those studies that used tamoxifen for about 5 years than in those that used tamoxifen for a shorter period of therapy. There was no indication that doses greater than 20 mg per day were more effective. Current data from clinical trials support 5 years of adjuvant NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy for patients with breast cancer.
The recommended dose is NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 20 mg daily for 5 years.
The recommended dose is NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 20 mg daily for 5 years. There are no data to support the use of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) other than for 5 years (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY-Clinical Studies - Reduction in Breast Cancer Incidence in High Risk Women).
10 mg Tablets containing tamoxifen as the citrate in an amount equivalent to 10 mg of tamoxifen (round, biconvex, uncoated, white tablet identified with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 600 debossed on one side and a cameo debossed on the other side) are supplied in bottles of 60 tablets. NDC 0310-0600-60.
20 mg Tablets containing tamoxifen as the citrate in an amount equivalent to 20 mg of tamoxifen (round, biconvex, uncoated, white tablet identified with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 604 debossed on one side and a cameo debossed on the other side) are supplied in bottles of 30 tablets. NDC 0310-0604-30.
Store at controlled room temperature, 20-25°C (68-77°F) [see USP]. Dispense in a well-closed, light-resistant container.
*Coumadin® is a registered trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals. All other trademarks are the property of the AstraZeneca group, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP Wilmington, Delaware 19850-5437. Rev 09-27-05. FDA revision date: 3/9/2006
Adverse reactions to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) are relatively mild and rarely severe enough to require discontinuation of treatment in breast cancer patients.
Continued clinical studies have resulted in further information which better indicates the incidence of adverse reactions with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) as compared to placebo.
Increased bone and tumor pain and, also, local disease flare have occurred, which are sometimes associated with a good tumor response. Patients with increased bone pain may require additional analgesics. Patients with soft tissue disease may have sudden increases in the size of preexisting lesions, sometimes associated with marked erythema within and surrounding the lesions and/or the development of new lesions. When they occur, the bone pain or disease flare are seen shortly after starting NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and generally subside rapidly.
In patients treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for metastatic breast cancer, the most frequent adverse reaction to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is hot flashes.
Other adverse reactions which are seen infrequently are hypercalcemia, peripheral edema, distaste for food, pruritus vulvae, depression, dizziness, light-headedness, headache, hair thinning and/or partial hair loss, and vaginal dryness.
The following table summarizes the incidence of adverse reactions reported at a frequency of 2% or greater from clinical trials (Ingle, Pritchard, Buchanan) which compared NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy to ovarian ablation in premenopausal patients with metastatic breast cancer.
| Adverse Reactions* | NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) All Effects % of Women n=104 |
OVARIAN ABLATION All Effects % of Women n =100 |
| Flush | 33 | 46 |
| Amenorrhea | 16 | 69 |
| Altered Menses | 13 | 5 |
| Oligomenorrhea | 9 | 1 |
| Bone Pain | 6 | 6 |
| Menstrual Disorder | 6 | 4 |
| Nausea | 5 | 4 |
| Cough/Coughing | 4 | 1 |
| Edema | 4 | 1 |
| Fatigue | 4 | 1 |
| Muscoloskeletal Pain | 3 | 0 |
| Pain | 3 | 4 |
| Ovarian Cyst(s) | 3 | 2 |
| Depression | 2 | 2 |
| Abdominal Cramps | 1 | 2 |
| Anorexia | 1 | 2 |
| *Some women had more than one adverse reaction. | ||
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is well tolerated in males with breast cancer. Reports from the literature and case reports suggest that the safety profile of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in males is similar to that seen in women. Loss of libido and impotence have resulted in discontinuation of tamoxifen therapy in male patients. Also, in oligospermic males treated with tamoxifen, LH, FSH, testosterone and estrogen levels were elevated. No significant clinical changes were reported.
In the NSABP B-14 study, women with axillary node-negative breast cancer were randomized to 5 years of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 20 mg/day or placebo following primary surgery. The reported adverse effects are tabulated below (mean follow-up of approximately 6.8 years) showing adverse events more common on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) than on placebo. The incidence of hot flashes (64% vs. 48%), vaginal discharge (30% vs. 15%), and irregular menses (25% vs. 19%) were higher with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) compared with placebo. All other adverse effects occurred with similar frequency in the 2 treatment groups, with the exception of thrombotic events; a higher incidence was seen in NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) -treated patients (through 5 years, 1.7% vs. 0.4%). Two of the patients treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) who had thrombotic events died.
| NSABP B-14 Study | ||
| Adverse Effect | % of Women | |
| NOLVADEX (n=1422) |
Placebo (n=1437) |
|
| Hot Flashes | 64 | 48 |
| Fluid Retention | 32 | 30 |
| Vaginal Discharge | 30 | 15 |
| Nausea | 26 | 24 |
| Irregular Menses | 25 | 19 |
| Weight Loss ( > 5%) | 23 | 18 |
| Skin Changes | 19 | 15 |
| Increased SGOT | 5 | 3 |
| Increased Bilirubin | 2 | 1 |
| Increased Creatinine | 2 | 1 |
| Thrombocytopenia* | 2 | 1 |
| Thrombotic Events | ||
| Deep Vein Thrombosis | 0.8 | 0.2 |
| Pulmonary Embolism | 0.5 | 0.2 |
| Superficial Phlebitis | 0.4 | 0.0 |
| *Defined as a platelet count of < 100,000/mm3 | ||
In the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) adjuvant breast cancer trial, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) or placebo was administered for 2 years to women following mastectomy. When compared to placebo, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) showed a significantly higher incidence of hot flashes (19% vs. 8% for placebo). The incidence of all other adverse reactions was similar in the 2 treatment groups with the exception of thrombocytopenia where the incidence for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was 10% vs. 3% for placebo, an observation of borderline statistical significance.
In other adjuvant studies, Toronto and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) Adjuvant Trial Organization (NATO), women received either NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) or no therapy. In the Toronto study, hot flashes were observed in 29% of patients for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs. 1% in the untreated group. In the NATO trial, hot flashes and vaginal bleeding were reported in 2.8% and 2.0% of women, respectively, for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs. 0.2% for each in the untreated group.
Anastrozole Adjuvant Trial - Study of Anastrozole compared to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for Adjuvant Treatment of Early Breast Cancer (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY - Clinical Studies).
At a median follow-up of 33 months, the combination of anastrozole and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) did not demonstrate any efficacy benefit when compared to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy given alone in all patients as well as in the hormone receptor positive subpopulation. This treatment arm was discontinued from the trial. The median duration of adjuvant treatment for safety evaluation was 59.8 months and 59.6 months for patients receiving anastrozole 1 mg and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 20 mg, respectively.
Adverse events occurring with an incidence of at least 5% in either treatment group during treatment or within 14 days of the end of treatment are presented in the following table.
Adverse events occurring with an incidence of at least 5%
in either treatment group during treatment, or within 14 days of the end of
treatment
| Body system and adverse event by COSTART-preferred term* | Anastrozole 1 mg (N = 3092) |
NOLVADEX 20 mg (N = 3094) |
| Body as a whole | ||
| Asthenia | 575 (19) | 544 (18) |
| Pain | 533 (17) | 485 (16) |
| Back pain | 321 (10) | 309 (10) |
| Headache | 314 (10) | 249 (8) |
| Abdominal pain | 271 (9) | 276 (9) |
| Infection | 285 (9) | 276 (9) |
| Accidental injury | 311 (10) | 303 (10) |
| Flu syndrome | 175 (6) | 195 (6) |
| Chest pain | 200 (7) | 150 (5) |
| Neoplasm | 162 (5) | 144 (5) |
| Cyst | 138 (5) | 162 (5) |
| Cardiovascular | ||
| Vasodilatation | 1104 (36) | 1264 (41) |
| Hypertension | 402 (13) | 349 (11) |
| Digestive | ||
| Nausea | 343 (11) | 335 (11) |
| Constipation | 249 (8) | 252 (8) |
| Diarrhea | 265 (9) | 216 (7) |
| Dyspepsia | 206 (7) | 169 (6) |
| Gastrointestinal disorder | 210 (7) | 158 (5) |
| Hemic and lymphatic | ||
| Lymphoedema | 304 (10) | 341 (11) |
| Anemia | 113 (4) | 159 (5) |
| Metabolic and nutritional | ||
| Peripheral edema | 311 (10) | 343 (11) |
| Weight gain | 285 (9) | 274 (9) |
| Hypercholesterolemia | 278 (9) | 108 (3.5) |
| Musculoskeletal | ||
| Arthritis | 512 (17) | 445 (14) |
| Arthralgia | 467 (15) | 344 (11) |
| Osteoporosis | 325 (11) | 226 (7) |
| Fracture | 315 (10) | 209 (7) |
| Bone pain | 201 (7) | 185 (6) |
| Arthrosis | 207 (7) | 156 (5) |
| Joint Disorder | 184 (6) | 160 (5) |
| Myalgia | 179 (6) | 160 (5) |
| Nervous system | ||
| Depression | 413 (13) | 382 (12) |
| Insomnia | 309 (10) | 281 (9) |
| Dizziness | 236 (8) | 234 (8) |
| Anxiety | 195 (6) | 180 (6) |
| Paraesthesia | 215 (7) | 145 (5) |
| Respiratory | ||
| Pharyngitis | 443 (14) | 422 (14) |
| Cough increased | 261 (8) | 287 (9) |
| Dyspnea | 234 (8) | 237 (8) |
| Sinusitis | 184 (6) | 159 (5) |
| Bronchitis | 167 (5) | 153 (5) |
| Skin and appendages | ||
| Rash | 333 (11) | 387 (13) |
| Sweating | 145 (5) | 177 (6) |
| Special Senses | ||
| Cataract Specified | 182 (6) | 213 (7) |
| Urogenital | ||
| Leukorrhea | 86 (3) | 286 (9) |
| Urinary tract infection | 244 (8) | 313 (10) |
| Breast pain | 251 (8) | 169 (6) |
| Breast Neoplasm | 164 (5) | 139 (5) |
| Vulvovaginitis | 194 (6) | 150 (5) |
| Vaginal Hemorrhage† | 122 (4) | 180 (6) |
| Vaginitis | 125 (4) | 158 (5) |
| COSTART Coding Symbols for Thesaurus of Adverse
Reaction Terms. N = Number of patients receiving the treatment. *A patient may have had more than 1 adverse event, including more than 1 adverse event in the same body system. † Vaginal Hemorrhage without further diagnosis. ** The combination arm was discontinued due to lack of efficacy benefit at 33 months of follow-up. |
||
Certain adverse events and combinations of adverse events were prospectively specified for analysis, based on the known pharmacologic properties and side effect profiles of the two drugs (see the following table).
Number (%) of Patients with Pre-Specified Adverse Event in
the Anastrozole Adjuvant Trial1
| Anastrozole N=3092 (%) |
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) N=3094 (%) |
Odds-ratio4 | 95% CI4 | |
| Hot Flashes | 1104 (36) | 1264 (41) | 0.80 | 0.73 - 0.89 |
| Musculoskeletal Events2 | 1100 (36) | 911 (29) | 1.32 | 1.19 - 1.47 |
| Fatigue/Asthenia | 575 (19) | 544 (18) | 1.07 | 0.94 - 1.22 |
| Mood Disturbances | 597 (19) | 554 (18) | 1.10 | 0.97 - 1.25 |
| Nausea and Vomiting | 393 (13) | 384 (12) | 1.03 | 0.88 - 1.19 |
| All Fractures | 315 (10) | 209 (7) | 1.57 | 1.30 - 1.88 |
| Fractures of Spine, Hip, or Wrist | 133 (4) | 91 (3) | 1.48 | 1.13 - 1.95 |
| Wrist/Colles' fractures | 67 (2) | 50 (2) | ||
| Spine fractures | 43 (1) | 22 (1) | ||
| Hip fractures | 28 (1) | 26 (1) | ||
| Cataracts | 182 (6) | 213 (7) | 0.85 | 0.69 - 1.04 |
| Vaginal Bleeding | 167 (5) | 317 (10) | 0.50 | 0.41 - 0.61 |
| Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease | 127 (4) | 104 (3) | 1.23 | 0.95 - 1.60 |
| Vaginal Discharge | 109 (4) | 408 (13) | 0.24 | 0.19 - 0.30 |
| Venous Thromboembolic events | 87 (3) | 140 (5) | 0.61 | 0.47 - 0.80 |
| Deep Venous Thromboembolic | 48 (2) | 74 (2) | 0.64 | 0.45 - 0.93 |
| Events | ||||
| Ischemic Cerebrovascular Event | 62 (2) | 88 (3) | 0.70 | 0.50 - 0.97 |
| Endometrial Cancer3 | 4 (0.2) | 13 (0.6) | 0.31 | 0.10 - 0.94 |
| 1Patients with multiple events
in the same category are counted only once in that category. 2Refers to joint symptoms, including joint disorder, arthritis, arthrosis and arthralgia. 3Percentages calculated based upon the numbers of patients with an intact uterus at baseline. 4The odds ratios < 1.00 favor Anastrozole and those > 1.00 favor NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) |
||||
Patients receiving anastrozole had an increase in joint disorders (including arthritis, arthrosis and arthralgia) compared with patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . Patients receiving anastrozole had an increase in the incidence of all fractures (specifically fractures of spine, hip and wrist) [315 (10%)] compared with patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) [209 (7%)]. Patients receiving anastrozole had a decrease in hot flashes, vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, endometrial cancer, venous thromboembolic events and ischemic cerebrovascular events compared with patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
Patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) had a decrease in hypercholesterolemia (108 [3.5%]) compared to patients receiving anastrozole (278 [9%]). Angina pectoris was reported in 71 [2.3%] patients in the anastrozole arm and 51 [1.6%] patients in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) arm; myocardial infarction was reported in 37 [1.2%] patients in the anastrozole arm and in 34 [1.1%] patients in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) arm.
Results from the adjuvant trial bone substudy, at 12 and 24 months demonstrated that patients receiving anastrozole had a mean decrease in both lumbar spine and total hip bone mineral density (BMD) compared to baseline. Patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) had a mean increase in both lumbar spine and total hip BMD compared to baseline.
The type and frequency of adverse events in the NSABP B-24 trial were consistent with those observed in the other adjuvant trials conducted with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
In the NSABP P-1 Trial, there was an increase in five serious adverse effects in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group: endometrial cancer (33 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group vs. 14 in the placebo group); pulmonary embolism (18 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group vs. 6 in the placebo group); deep vein thrombosis (30 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group vs. 19 in the placebo group); stroke (34 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group vs. 24 in the placebo group); cataract formation (540 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group vs. 483 in the placebo group) and cataract surgery (101 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group vs. 63 in the placebo group) (See WARNINGS and Table 3 in CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
The following table presents the adverse events observed in NSABP P-1 by treatment arm. Only adverse events more common on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) than placebo are shown.
| NSABP P-1 Trial: All Adverse Events % of Women | ||
| NOLVADEX N=6681 |
PLACEBO N=6707 |
|
| Self Reported Symptoms | N=64411 | N=64691 |
| Hot Flashes | 80 | 68 |
| Vaginal Discharges | 55 | 35 |
| Vaginal Bleeding | 23 | 22 |
| Laboratory Abnormalities | N=65202 | N=65352 |
| Platelets decreased | 0.7 | 0.3 |
| Adverse Effects | N=64923 | N=64843 |
| Other Toxicities | ||
| Mood | 11.6 | 10.8 |
| Infection/Sepsis | 6.0 | 5.1 |
| Constipation | 4.4 | 3.2 |
| Alopecia | 5.2 | 4.4 |
| Skin | 5.6 | 4.7 |
| Allergy | 2.5 | 2.1 |
| 1Number with Quality of Life
Questionnaires 2Number with Treatment Follow-up Forms 3Number with Adverse Drug Reaction Forms |
||
In the NSABP P-1 trial, 15.0% and 9.7% of participants receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and placebo therapy, respectively withdrew from the trial for medical reasons. The following are the medical reasons for withdrawing from NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and placebo therapy, respectively: Hot flashes (3.1% vs. 1.5%) and Vaginal Discharge (0.5% vs. 0.1%).
In the NSABP P-1 trial, 8.7% and 9.6% of participants receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and placebo therapy, respectively withdrew for non-medical reasons.
On the NSABP P-1 trial, hot flashes of any severity occurred in 68% of women on placebo and in 80% of women on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . Severe hot flashes occurred in 28% of women on placebo and 45% of women on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . Vaginal discharge occurred in 35% and 55% of women on placebo and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) respectively; and was severe in 4.5% and 12.3% respectively. There was no difference in the incidence of vaginal bleeding between treatment arms.
Mean uterine volume increased after 6 months of treatment and doubled at the end of the one-year study. A causal relationship has not been established; however, as an increase in the incidence of endometrial adenocarcinoma and uterine sarcoma has been noted in adults treated with NOLVADEX (see BOXED WARNING), continued monitoring of McCune-Albright patients treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for long-term effects is recommended. The safety and efficacy of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for girls aged two to 10 years with McCune-Albright Syndrome and precocious puberty have not been studied beyond one year of treatment. The long-term effects of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy in girls have not been established.
Less frequently reported adverse reactions are vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, menstrual irregularities, skin rash and headaches. Usually these have not been of sufficient severity to require dosage reduction or discontinuation of treatment. Very rare reports of erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, bullous pemphigoid, interstitial pneumonitis, and rare reports of hypersensitivity reactions including angioedema have been reported with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy. In some of these cases, the time to onset was more than one year. Rarely, elevation of serum triglyceride levels, in some cases with pancreatitis, may be associated with the use of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) (see PRECAUTIONS- Drug/Laboratory Testing Interactions section).
When NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is used in combination with coumarin-type anticoagulants, a significant increase in anticoagulant effect may occur. Where such coadministration exists, careful monitoring of the patient's prothrombin time is recommended.
In the NSABP P-1 trial, women who required coumarin-type anticoagulants for any reason were ineligible for participation in the trial (See CONTRAINDICATIONS).
There is an increased risk of thromboembolic events occurring when cytotoxic agents are used in combination with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
Tamoxifen reduced letrozole plasma concentrations by 37%. The effect of tamoxifen on metabolism and excretion of other antineoplastic drugs, such as cyclophosphamide and other drugs that require mixed function oxidases for activation, is not known. Tamoxifen and N-desmethyl tamoxifen plasma concentrations have been shown to be reduced when coadministered with rifampin or aminoglutethimide. Induction of CYP3A4-mediated metabolism is considered to be the mechanism by which these reductions occur; other CYP3A4 inducing agents have not been studied to confirm this effect.
One patient receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) with concomitant phenobarbital exhibited a steady state serum level of tamoxifen lower than that observed for other patients (ie, 26 ng/mL vs. mean value of 122 ng/mL). However, the clinical significance of this finding is not known. Rifampin induced the metabolism of tamoxifen and significantly reduced the plasma concentrations of tamoxifen in 10 patients. Aminoglutethimide reduces tamoxifen and N-desmethyl tamoxifen plasma concentrations. Medroxyprogesterone reduces plasma concentrations of N-desmethyl, but not tamoxifen.
Concomitant bromocriptine therapy has been shown to elevate serum tamoxifen and N-desmethyl tamoxifen.
Based on clinical and pharmacokinetic results from the anastrozole adjuvant trial, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should not be administered with anastrozole (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY - Drug-Drug Interactions section).
During postmarketing surveillance, T4 elevations were reported for a few postmenopausal patients which may be explained by increases in thyroid-binding globulin. These elevations were not accompanied by clinical hyperthyroidism.
Variations in the karyopyknotic index on vaginal smears and various degrees of estrogen effect on Pap smears have been infrequently seen in postmenopausal patients given NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
In the postmarketing experience with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , infrequent cases of hyperlipidemias have been reported. Periodic monitoring of plasma triglycerides and cholesterol may be indicated in patients with pre-existing hyperlipidemias (See ADVERSE REACTIONS-Postmarketing experience section).
As with other additive hormonal therapy (estrogens and androgens), hypercalcemia has been reported in some breast cancer patients with bone metastases within a few weeks of starting treatment with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . If hypercalcemia does occur, appropriate measures should be taken and, if severe, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should be discontinued.
An increased incidence of uterine malignancies has been reported in association with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) treatment. The underlying mechanism is unknown, but may be related to the estrogen-like effect of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . Most uterine malignancies seen in association with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) are classified as adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. However, rare uterine sarcomas, including malignant mixed mullerian tumors (MMMT), have also been reported. Uterine sarcoma is generally associated with a higher FIGO stage (III/IV) at diagnosis, poorer prognosis, and shorter survival. Uterine sarcoma has been reported to occur more frequently among long-term users ( ≥ 2 years) of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) than non-users. Some of the uterine malignancies (endometrial carcinoma or uterine sarcoma) have been fatal.
In the NSABP P-1 trial, among participants randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) there was a statistically significant increase in the incidence of endometrial cancer (33 cases of invasive endometrial cancer, compared to 14 cases among participants randomized to placebo (RR=2.48, 95% CI: 1.27-4.92). The 33 cases in participants receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) were FIGO Stage I, including 20 IA, 12 IB, and 1 IC endometrial adenocarcinomas. In participants randomized to placebo, 13 were FIGO Stage I (8 IA and 5 IB) and 1 was FIGO Stage IV. Five women on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and 1 on placebo received postoperative radiation therapy in addition to surgery. This increase was primarily observed among women at least 50 years of age at the time of randomization (26 cases of invasive endometrial cancer, compared to 6 cases among participants randomized to placebo (RR=4.50, 95% CI: 1.78-13.16). Among women ≤ 49 years of age at the time of randomization there were 7 cases of invasive endometrial cancer, compared to 8 cases among participants randomized to placebo (RR=0.94, 95% CI: 0.28-2.89). If age at the time of diagnosis is considered, there were 4 cases of endometrial cancer among participants ≤ 49 randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) compared to 2 among participants randomized to placebo (RR=2.21, 95% CI: 0.4-12.0). For women ≥ 50 at the time of diagnosis, there were 29 cases among participants randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) compared to 12 among women on placebo (RR=2.5, 95% CI: 1.3-4.9). The risk ratios were similar in the two groups, although fewer events occurred in younger women. Most (29 of 33 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group) endometrial cancers were diagnosed in symptomatic women, although 5 of 33 cases in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group occurred in asymptomatic women. Among women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) the events appeared between 1 and 61 months (average=32 months) from the start of treatment.
In an updated review of long-term data (median length of total follow-up is 6.9 years, including blinded follow-up) on 8,306 women with an intact uterus at randomization in the NSABP P-1 risk reduction trial, the incidence of both adenocarcinomas and rare uterine sarcomas was increased in women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . During blinded follow-up, there were 36 cases of FIGO Stage I endometrial adenocarcinoma (22 were FIGO Stage IA, 13 IB, and 1 IC) in women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and 15 cases in women receiving placebo [14 were FIGO Stage I (9 IA and 5 IB), and 1 case was FIGO Stage IV]. Of the patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) who developed endometrial cancer, one with Stage IA and 4 with Stage IB cancers received radiation therapy. In the placebo group, one patient with FIGO Stage 1B cancer received radiation therapy and the patient with FIGO Stage IVB cancer received chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. During total follow-up, endometrial adenocarcinoma was reported in 53 women randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) (30 cases of FIGO Stage IA, 20 were Stage IB, 1 was Stage IC, and 2 were Stage IIIC), and 17 women randomized to placebo (9 cases were FIGO Stage IA, 6 were Stage IB, 1 was Stage IIIC, and 1 was Stage IVB) (incidence per 1,000 women-years of 2.20 and 0.71, respectively). Some patients received post-operative radiation therapy in addition to surgery. Uterine sarcomas were reported in 4 women randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) (1 was FIGO IA, 1 was FIGO IB, 1 was FIGO IIA, and 1 was FIGO IIIC) and one patient randomized to placebo (FIGO 1A); incidence per 1,000 women-years of 0.17 and 0.04, respectively. Of the patients randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , the FIGO IA and IB cases were a MMMT and sarcoma, respectively; the FIGO II was a MMMT; and the FIGO III was a sarcoma; and the one patient randomized to placebo had a MMMT. A similar increased incidence in endometrial adenocarcinoma and uterine sarcoma was observed among women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in five other NSABP clinical trials.
Any patient receiving or who has previously received NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) who reports abnormal vaginal bleeding should be promptly evaluated. Patients receiving or who have previously received NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should have annual gynecological examinations and they should promptly inform their physicians if they experience any abnormal gynecological symptoms, eg, menstrual irregularities, abnormal vaginal bleeding, changes in vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain or pressure.
In the P-1 trial, endometrial sampling did not alter the endometrial cancer detection rate compared to women who did not undergo endometrial sampling (0.6% with sampling, 0.5% without sampling) for women with an intact uterus. There are no data to suggest that routine endometrial sampling in asymptomatic women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to reduce the incidence of breast cancer would be beneficial.
An increased incidence of endometrial changes including hyperplasia and polyps have been reported in association with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) treatment. The incidence and pattern of this increase suggest that the underlying mechanism is related to the estrogenic properties of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
There have been a few reports of endometriosis and uterine fibroids in women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . The underlying mechanism may be due to the partial estrogenic effect of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . Ovarian cysts have also been observed in a small number of premenopausal patients with advanced breast cancer who have been treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) has been reported to cause menstrual irregularity or amenorrhea.
There is evidence of an increased incidence of thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, during NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy. When NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is coadminstered with chemotherapy, there may be a further increase in the incidence of thromboembolic effects. For treatment of breast cancer, the risks and benefits of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should be carefully considered in women with a history of thromboembolic events. In a small substudy (N=81) of the NSABP P-1 trial, there appeared to be no benefit to screening women for Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin mutations G20210A as a means to identify those who may not be appropriate candidates for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy.
Data from the NSABP P-1 trial show that participants receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) without a history of pulmonary emboli (PE) had a statistically significant increase in pulmonary emboli (18-NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , 6-placebo, RR=3.01, 95% CI: 1.15- 9.27). Three of the pulmonary emboli, all in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) arm, were fatal. Eighty-seven percent of the cases of pulmonary embolism occurred in women at least 50 years of age at randomization. Among women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , the events appeared between 2 and 60 months (average=27 months) from the start of treatment.
In this same population, a non-statistically significant increase in deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was seen in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group (30-NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , 19-placebo; RR=1.59, 95% CI: 0.86-2.98). The same increase in relative risk was seen in women ≤ 49 and in women ≥ 50, although fewer events occurred in younger women. Women with thromboembolic events were at risk for a second related event (7 out of 25 women on placebo, 5 out of 48 women on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ) and were at risk for complications of the event and its treatment (0/25 on placebo, 4/48 on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ). Among women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , deep vein thrombosis events occurred between 2 and 57 months (average=19 months) from the start of treatment.
There was a non-statistically significant increase in stroke among patients randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) (24-Placebo; 34-NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ; RR=1.42; 95% CI 0.82-2.51). Six of the 24 strokes in the placebo group were considered hemorrhagic in origin and 10 of the 34 strokes in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group were categorized as hemorrhagic. Seventeen of the 34 strokes in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group were considered occlusive and 7 were considered to be of unknown etiology. Fourteen of the 24 strokes on the placebo arm were reported to be occlusive and 4 of unknown etiology. Among these strokes 3 strokes in the placebo group and 4 strokes in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) group were fatal. Eighty-eight percent of the strokes occurred in women at least 50 years of age at the time of randomization. Among women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , the events occurred between 1 and 63 months (average=30 months) from the start of treatment.
In the Swedish trial using adjuvant NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 40 mg/day for 2-5 years, 3 cases of liver cancer have been reported in the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) -treated group vs. 1 case in the observation group (See PRECAUTIONS- Carcinogenesis). In other clinical trials evaluating NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , no cases of liver cancer have been reported to date.
One case of liver cancer was reported in NSABP P-1 in a participant randomized to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) has been associated with changes in liver enzyme levels, and on rare occasions, a spectrum of more severe liver abnormalities including fatty liver, cholestasis, hepatitis and hepatic necrosis. A few of these serious cases included fatalities. In most reported cases the relationship to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is uncertain. However, some positive rechallenges and dechallenges have been reported.
In the NSABP P-1 trial, few grade 3-4 changes in liver function (SGOT, SGPT, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase) were observed (10 on placebo and 6 on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ). Serum lipids were not systematically collected.
A number of second primary tumors, occurring at sites other than the endometrium, have been reported following the treatment of breast cancer with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in clinical trials. Data from the NSABP B-14 and P-1 studies show no increase in other (non-uterine) cancers among patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . Whether an increased risk for other (non-uterine) cancers is associated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is still uncertain and continues to be evaluated.
Ocular disturbances, including corneal changes, decrement in color vision perception, retinal vein thrombosis, and retinopathy have been reported in patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) . An increased incidence of cataracts and the need for cataract surgery have been reported in patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
In the NSABP P-1 trial, an increased risk of borderline significance of developing cataracts among those women without cataracts at baseline (540-NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ; 483-placebo; RR=1.13, 95% CI: 1.00-1.28) was observed. Among these same women, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was associated with an increased risk of having cataract surgery (101-NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ; 63-placebo; RR=1.62, 95% CI 1.18-2.22) (See Table 3 in CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Among all women on the trial (with or without cataracts at baseline), NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was associated with an increased risk of having cataract surgery (201-NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ; 129-placebo; RR=1.58, 95% CI 1.26-1.97). Eye examinations were not required during the study. No other conclusions regarding non-cataract ophthalmic events can be made.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Women should be advised not to become pregnant while taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) or within 2 months of discontinuing NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and should use barrier or nonhormonal contraceptive measures if sexually active. Tamoxifen does not cause infertility, even in the presence of menstrual irregularity. Effects on reproductive functions are expected from the antiestrogenic properties of the drug. In reproductive studies in rats at dose levels equal to or below the human dose, nonteratogenic developmental skeletal changes were seen and were found reversible. In addition, in fertility studies in rats and in teratology studies in rabbits using doses at or below those used in humans, a lower incidence of embryo implantation and a higher incidence of fetal death or retarded in utero growth were observed, with slower learning behavior in some rat pups when compared to historical controls. Several pregnant marmosets were dosed with 10 mg/kg/day (about 2-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis) during organogenesis or in the last half of pregnancy. No deformations were seen and, although the dose was high enough to terminate pregnancy in some animals, those that did maintain pregnancy showed no evidence of teratogenic malformations.
In rodent models of fetal reproductive tract development, tamoxifen (at doses 0.002 to 2.4-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis) caused changes in both sexes that are similar to those caused by estradiol, ethynylestradiol and diethylstilbestrol. Although the clinical relevance of these changes is unknown, some of these changes, especially vaginal adenosis, are similar to those seen in young women who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol in utero and who have a 1 in 1000 risk of developing clear-cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina or cervix. To date, in utero exposure to tamoxifen has not been shown to cause vaginal adenosis, or clear-cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina or cervix, in young women. However, only a small number of young women have been exposed to tamoxifen in utero, and a smaller number have been followed long enough (to age 15-20) to determine whether vaginal or cervical neoplasia could occur as a result of this exposure.
There are no adequate and well-controlled trials of tamoxifen in pregnant women. There have been a small number of reports of vaginal bleeding, spontaneous abortions, birth defects, and fetal deaths in pregnant women. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, or within approximately two months after discontinuing therapy, the patient should be apprised of the potential risks to the fetus including the potential long-term risk of a DES-like syndrome.
For sexually active women of child-bearing potential, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy should be initiated during menstruation. In women with menstrual irregularity, a negative B-HCG immediately prior to the initiation of therapy is sufficient (See PRECAUTIONS-INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS - Reduction in Breast Cancer Incidence in High Risk Women).
Decreases in platelet counts, usually to 50,000-100,000/mm³, infrequently lower, have been occasionally reported in patients taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for breast cancer. In patients with significant thrombocytopenia, rare hemorrhagic episodes have occurred, but it is uncertain if these episodes are due to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy. Leukopenia has been observed, sometimes in association with anemia and/or thrombocytopenia. There have been rare reports of neutropenia and pancytopenia in patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) ; this can sometimes be severe.
In the NSABP P-1 trial, 6 women on NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and 2 on placebo experienced grade 3-4 drops in platelet counts ( ≤ 50,000/mm³).
Patients should be instructed to read the Medication Guide supplied as required by law when NOLVADEX is dispensed. The complete text of the Medication Guide is reprinted at the end of this document.
Women with DCIS treated with lumpectomy and radiation therapy who are considering NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to reduce the incidence of a second breast cancer event should assess the risks and benefits of therapy, since treatment with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) decreased the incidence of invasive breast cancer, but has not been shown to affect survival (See Table 1 in CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
Women who are at high risk for breast cancer can consider taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy to reduce the incidence of breast cancer. Whether the benefits of treatment are considered to outweigh the risks depends on a woman's personal health history and on how she weighs the benefits and risks. NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy to reduce the incidence of breast cancer may therefore not be appropriate for all women at high risk for breast cancer. Women who are considering NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy should consult their health care professional for an assessment of the potential benefits and risks prior to starting therapy for reduction in breast cancer incidence (See Table 3 in CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Women should understand that NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) reduces the incidence of breast cancer, but may not eliminate risk. NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) decreased the incidence of small estrogen receptor positive tumors, but did not alter the incidence of estrogen receptor negative tumors or larger tumors. In women with breast cancer who are at high risk of developing a second breast cancer, treatment with about 5 years of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) reduced the annual incidence rate of a second breast cancer by approximately 50%.
Women who are pregnant or who plan to become pregnant should not take NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to reduce her risk of breast cancer. Effective nonhormonal contraception must be used by all premenopausal women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and for approximately two months after discontinuing therapy if they are sexually active. Tamoxifen does not cause infertility, even in the presence of menstrual irregularity. For sexually active women of child-bearing potential, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy should be initiated during menstruation. In women with menstrual irregularity, a negative B-HCG immediately prior to the initiation of therapy is sufficient (See WARNINGS-Pregnancy Category D).
Two European trials of tamoxifen to reduce the risk of breast cancer were conducted and showed no difference in the number of breast cancer cases between the tamoxifen and placebo arms. These studies had trial designs that differed from that of NSABP P-1, were smaller than NSABP P-1, and enrolled women at a lower risk for breast cancer than those in P-1.
Women taking or having previously taken NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should be instructed to seek prompt medical attention for new breast lumps, vaginal bleeding, gynecologic symptoms (menstrual irregularities, changes in vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain or pressure), symptoms of leg swelling or tenderness, unexplained shortness of breath, or changes in vision. Women should inform all care providers, regardless of the reason for evaluation, that they take NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) .
Women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to reduce the incidence of breast cancer should have a breast examination, a mammogram, and a gynecologic examination prior to the initiation of therapy. These studies should be repeated at regular intervals while on therapy, in keeping with good medical practice. Women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) as adjuvant breast cancer therapy should follow the same monitoring procedures as for women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for the reduction in the incidence of breast cancer. Women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) as treatment for metastatic breast cancer should review this monitoring plan with their care provider and select the appropriate modalities and schedule of evaluation.
Periodic complete blood counts, including platelet counts, and periodic liver function tests should be obtained.
During the ATAC trial, more patients receiving anastrozole were reported to have an elevated serum cholesterol compared to patients receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) (9% versus 3.5%, respectively).
A conventional carcinogenesis study in rats at doses of 5, 20, and 35 mg/kg/day (about one, three and seven-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m²basis) administered by oral gavage for up to 2 years) revealed a significant increase in hepatocellular carcinoma at all doses. The incidence of these tumors was significantly greater among rats administered 20 or 35 mg/kg/day (69%) compared to those administered 5 mg/kg/day (14%). In a separate study, rats were administered tamoxifen at 45 mg/kg/day (about nine-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis); hepatocellular neoplasia was exhibited at 3 to 6 months.
Granulosa cell ovarian tumors and interstitial cell testicular tumors were observed in two separate mouse studies. The mice were administered the trans and racemic forms of tamoxifen for 13 to 15 months at doses of 5, 20 and 50 mg/kg/day (about one-half, two and five-fold the daily recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis).
No genotoxic potential was found in a conventional battery of in vivo and in vitro tests with pro- and eukaryotic test systems with drug metabolizing systems. However, increased levels of DNA adducts were observed by 32P post-labeling in DNA from rat liver and cultured human lymphocytes. Tamoxifen also has been found to increase levels of micronucleus formation in vitro in human lymphoblastoid cell line (MCL-5). Based on these findings, tamoxifen is genotoxic in rodent and human MCL-5 cells.
Tamoxifen produced impairment of fertility and conception in female rats at doses of 0.04 mg/kg/day (about 0.01-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis) when dosed for two weeks prior to mating through day 7 of pregnancy. At this dose, fertility and reproductive indices were markedly reduced with total fetal mortality. Fetal mortality was also increased at doses of 0.16 mg/kg/day (about 0.03-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis) when female rats were dosed from days 7-17 of pregnancy. Tamoxifen produced abortion, premature delivery and fetal death in rabbits administered doses equal to or greater than 0.125 mg/kg/day (about 0.05-fold the daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m² basis). There were no teratogenic changes in either rats or rabbits.
See WARNINGS.
Tamoxifen has been reported to inhibit lactation. Two placebo-controlled studies in over 150 women have shown that tamoxifen significantly inhibits early postpartum milk production. In both studies tamoxifen was administered within 24 hours of delivery for between 5 and 18 days. The effect of tamoxifen on established milk production is not known.
There are no data that address whether tamoxifen is excreted into human milk. If excreted, there are no data regarding the effects of tamoxifen in breast milk on the breastfed infant or breastfed animals. However, direct neonatal exposure of tamoxifen to mice and rats (not via breast milk) produced 1) reproductive tract lesions in female rodents (similar to those seen in humans after intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol) and 2) functional defects of the reproductive tract in male rodents such as testicular atrophy and arrest of spermatogenesis.
It is not known if NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should not breast feed.
It is not known if NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , women taking NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should not breast feed.
The safety and efficacy of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for girls aged two to 10 years with McCune-Albright Syndrome and precocious puberty have not been studied beyond one year of treatment. The long-term effects of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy for girls have not been established. In adults treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , an increase in incidence of uterine malignancies, stroke and pulmonary embolism has been noted (see BOXED WARNING, and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY-Clinical Studies-McCune-Albright Syndrome subsection).
In the NSABP P-1 trial, the percentage of women at least 65 years of age was 16%. Women at least 70 years of age accounted for 6% of the participants. A reduction in breast cancer incidence was seen among participants in each of the subsets: A total of 28 and 10 invasive breast cancers were seen among participants 65 and older in the placebo and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) groups, respectively. Across all other outcomes, the results in this subset reflect the results observed in the subset of women at least 50 years of age. No overall differences in tolerability were observed between older and younger patients (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY - Clinical Studies - Reduction in Breast Cancer Incidence in High Risk Women section).
In the NSABP B-24 trial, the percentage of women at least 65 years of age was 23%. Women at least 70 years of age accounted for 10% of participants. A total of 14 and 12 invasive breast cancers were seen among participants 65 and older in the placebo and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) groups, respectively. This subset is too small to reach any conclusions on efficacy. Across all other endpoints, the results in this subset were comparable to those of younger women enrolled in this trial. No overall differences in tolerability were observed between older and younger patients.
Signs observed at the highest doses following studies to determine LD50 in animals were respiratory difficulties and convulsions.
Acute overdosage in humans has not been reported. In a study of advanced metastatic cancer patients which specifically determined the maximum tolerated dose of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in evaluating the use of very high doses to reverse multidrug resistance, acute neurotoxicity manifested by tremor, hyperreflexia, unsteady gait and dizziness were noted. These symptoms occurred within 3-5 days of beginning NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) and cleared within 2-5 days after stopping therapy. No permanent neurologic toxicity was noted. One patient experienced a seizure several days after NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was discontinued and neurotoxic symptoms had resolved. The causal relationship of the seizure to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy is unknown. Doses given in these patients were all greater than 400 mg/m² loading dose, followed by maintenance doses of 150 mg/m² of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) given twice a day.
In the same study, prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram was noted when patients were given doses higher than 250 mg/m² loading dose, followed by maintenance doses of 80 mg/m² of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) given twice a day. For a woman with a body surface area of 1.5 m² the minimal loading dose and maintenance doses given at which neurological symptoms and QT changes occurred were at least 6 fold higher in respect to the maximum recommended dose.
No specific treatment for overdosage is known; treatment must be symptomatic.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its ingredients.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is contraindicated in women who require concomitant coumarin-type anticoagulant therapy or in women with a history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolus.
NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is a nonsteroidal agent that has demonstrated potent antiestrogenic properties in animal test systems. The antiestrogenic effects may be related to its ability to compete with estrogen for binding sites in target tissues such as breast. Tamoxifen inhibits the induction of rat mammary carcinoma induced by dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) and causes the regression of already established DMBA-induced tumors. In this rat model, tamoxifen appears to exert its antitumor effects by binding the estrogen receptors.
In cytosols derived from human breast adenocarcinomas, tamoxifen competes with estradiol for estrogen receptor protein.
Following a single oral dose of 20 mg tamoxifen, an average peak plasma concentration of 40 ng/mL (range 35 to 45 ng/mL) occurred approximately 5 hours after dosing. The decline in plasma concentrations of tamoxifen is biphasic with a terminal elimination half-life of about 5 to 7 days. The average peak plasma concentration of N-desmethyl tamoxifen is 15 ng/mL (range 10 to 20 ng/mL). Chronic administration of 10 mg tamoxifen given twice daily for 3 months to patients results in average steady-state plasma concentrations of 120 ng/mL (range 67-183 ng/mL) for tamoxifen and 336 ng/mL (range 148-654 ng/mL) for N-desmethyl tamoxifen. The average steady-state plasma concentrations of tamoxifen and N-desmethyl tamoxifen after administration of 20 mg tamoxifen once daily for 3 months are 122 ng/mL (range 71-183 ng/mL) and 353 ng/mL (range 152-706 ng/mL), respectively. After initiation of therapy, steady state concentrations for tamoxifen are achieved in about 4 weeks and steady-state concentrations for N-desmethyl tamoxifen are achieved in about 8 weeks, suggesting a half-life of approximately 14 days for this metabolite. In a steady-state, crossover study of 10 mg NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) tablets given twice a day vs. a 20 mg NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) tablet given once daily, the 20 mg NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) tablet was bioequivalent to the 10 mg NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) tablets.
Tamoxifen is extensively metabolized after oral administration. N-desmethyl tamoxifen is the major metabolite found in patients' plasma. The biological activity of N-desmethyl tamoxifen appears to be similar to that of tamoxifen. 4-Hydroxytamoxifen and a side chain primary alcohol derivative of tamoxifen have been identified as minor metabolites in plasma. Tamoxifen is a substrate of cytochrome P-450 3A, 2C9 and 2D6, and an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein.
Studies in women receiving 20 mg of 14C tamoxifen have shown that approximately 65% of the administered dose was excreted from the body over a period of 2 weeks with fecal excretion as the primary route of elimination. The drug is excreted mainly as polar conjugates, with unchanged drug and unconjugated metabolites accounting for less than 30% of the total fecal radioactivity.
The effects of age, gender and race on the pharmacokinetics of tamoxifen have not been determined. The effects of reduced liver function on the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of tamoxifen have not been determined.
The pharmacokinetics of tamoxifen and N-desmethyl tamoxifen were characterized using a population pharmacokinetic analysis with sparse samples per patient obtained from 27 female pediatric patients aged 2 to 10 years enrolled in a study designed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in treating McCune-Albright Syndrome. Rich data from two tamoxifen citrate pharmacokinetic trials in which 59 postmenopausal women with breast cancer completed the studies were included in the analysis to determine the structural pharmacokinetic model for tamoxifen. A one-compartment model provided the best fit to the data.
In pediatric patients, an average steady state peak plasma concentration (Css, max) and AUC were of 187 ng/mL and 4110 ng hr/mL, respectively, and Css, max occurred approximately 8 hours after dosing. Clearance (CL/F) as body weight adjusted in female pediatric patients was approximately 2.3-fold higher than in female breast cancer patients. In the youngest cohort of female pediatric patients (2-6 year olds), CL/F was 2.6-fold higher; in the oldest cohort (7-10.9 year olds) CL/F was approximately 1.9-fold higher. Exposure to N-desmethyl tamoxifen was comparable between the pediatric and adult patients. The safety and efficacy of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for girls aged two to 10 years with McCune-Albright Syndrome and precocious puberty have not been studied beyond one year of treatment. The long-term effects of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy in girls have not been established. In adults treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) an increase in incidence of uterine malignancies, stroke and pulmonary embolism has been noted (see BOXED WARNING).
In vitro studies showed that erythromycin, cyclosporin, nifedipine and diltiazem competitively inhibited formation of N-desmethyl tamoxifen with apparent K1 of 20, 1, 45 and 30 µM, respectively. The clinical significance of these in vitro studies is unknown.
Tamoxifen reduced the plasma concentration of letrozole by 37% when these drugs were co-administered. Rifampin, a cytochrome P-450 3A4 inducer reduced tamoxifen AUC and Cmax by 86% and 55%, respectively. Aminoglutethimide reduces tamoxifen and N-desmethyl tamoxifen plasma concentrations. Medroxyprogesterone reduces plasma concentrations of N-desmethyl, but not tamoxifen.
In the anastrozole adjuvant trial, co-administration of anastrozole and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in breast cancer patients reduced anastrozole plasma concentration by 27% compared to those achieved with anastrozole alone; however, the coadministration did not affect the pharmacokinetics of tamoxifen or N-desmethyltamoxifen (see PRECAUTIONS -DRUG INTERACTIONS). NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) should not be co-administered with anastrozole.
Premenopausal Women (NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs. Ablation)
Three prospective, randomized studies (Ingle, Pritchard, Buchanan) compared NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to ovarian ablation (oophorectomy or ovarian irradiation) in premenopausal women with advanced breast cancer. Although the objective response rate, time to treatment failure, and survival were similar with both treatments, the limited patient accrual prevented a demonstration of equivalence. In an overview analysis of survival data from the 3 studies, the hazard ratio for death (NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) /ovarian ablation) was 1.00 with two-sided 95% confidence intervals of 0.73 to 1.37. Elevated serum and plasma estrogens have been observed in premenopausal women receiving NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , but the data from the randomized studies do not suggest an adverse effect of this increase. A limited number of premenopausal patients with disease progression during NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy responded to subsequent ovarian ablation.
Male Breast Cancer
Published results from 122 patients (119 evaluable) and case reports in 16 patients (13 evaluable) treated with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) have shown that NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) is effective for the palliative treatment of male breast cancer. Sixty-six of these 132 evaluable patients responded to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) which constitutes a 50% objective response rate.
Overview
The Early Breast Cancer Trialists' Collaborative Group (EBCTCG) conducted worldwide overviews of systemic adjuvant therapy for early breast cancer in 1985, 1990, and again in 1995. In 1998, 10-year outcome data were reported for 36,689 women in 55 randomized trials of adjuvant NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) using doses of 20-40 mg/day for 1-5+ years. Twenty-five percent of patients received 1 year or less of trial treatment, 52% received 2 years, and 23% received about 5 years. Forty-eight percent of tumors were estrogen receptor (ER) positive ( > 10 fmol/mg), 21% were ER poor ( < 10 fmol/l), and 31% were ER unknown. Among 29,441 patients with ER positive or unknown breast cancer, 58% were entered into trials comparing NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to no adjuvant therapy and 42% were entered into trials comparing NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) in combination with chemotherapy vs. the same chemotherapy alone. Among these patients, 54% had node positive disease and 46% had node negative disease.
Among women with ER positive or unknown breast cancer and positive nodes who received about 5 years of treatment, overall survival at 10 years was 61.4% for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs. 50.5% for control (logrank 2p < 0.00001). The recurrence-free rate at 10 years was 59.7% for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs. 44.5% for control (logrank 2p < 0.00001). Among women with ER positive or unknown breast cancer and negative nodes who received about 5 years of treatment, overall survival at 10 years was 78.9% for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) vs. 73.3% for control (logrank 2p < 0.00001). The recurrence-free rate at 10 years was 79.2% for NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) versus 64.3% for control (logrank 2p < 0.00001).
The effect of the scheduled duration of tamoxifen may be described as follows. In women with ER positive or unknown breast cancer receiving 1 year or less, 2 years or about 5 years of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) , the proportional reductions in mortality were 12%, 17% and 26%, respectively (trend significant at 2p < 0.003). The corresponding reductions in breast cancer recurrence were 21%, 29% and 47% (trend significant at 2p < 0.00001).
Benefit is less clear for women with ER poor breast cancer in whom the proportional reduction in recurrence was 10% (2p = 0.007) for all durations taken together, or 9% (2p = 0.02) if contralateral breast cancers are excluded. The corresponding reduction in mortality was 6% (NS). The effects of about 5 years of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) on recurrence and mortality were similar regardless of age and concurrent chemotherapy. There was no indication that doses greater than 20 mg per day were more effective.
Anastrozole Adjuvant ATAC Trial - Study of Anastrozole compared to NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) for Adjuvant Treatment of Early Breast Cancer - An anastrozole adjuvant trial was conducted in 9366 postmenopausal women with operable breast cancer who were randomized to receive adjuvant treatment with either anastrozole 1 mg daily, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) 20 mg daily, or a combination of these two treatments for five years or until recurrence of the disease. At a median follow-up of 33 months, the combination of anastrozole and NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) did not demonstrate any efficacy benefit when compared with NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) therapy alone in all patients as well as in the hormone receptor-positive subpopulation. This treatment arm was discontinued from the trial. Please refer to CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY-Special Populations-Drug-Drug Interactions, PRECAUTIONS-Laboratory Tests, PRECAUTIONS-Drug Interactions and ADVERSE REACTIONS sections for safety information from this trial. Please refer to the full prescribing information for ARIMIDEX® (anastrozole) 1 mg Tablets for additional information on this trial.
Patients in the two monotherapy arms of the ATAC trial were treated for a median of 60 months (5 years) and followed for a median of 68 months. Disease-free survival in the intent-to-treat population was statistically significantly improved [Hazard Ratio (HR) = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.78, 0.97, p=0.0127] in the anastrazole arm compared to the NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) arm.
Node Positive - Individual Studies
Two studies (Hubay and NSABP B-09) demonstrated an improved disease-free survival following radical or modified radical mastectomy in postmenopausal women or women 50 years of age or older with surgically curable breast cancer with positive axillary nodes when NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was added to adjuvant cytotoxic chemotherapy. In the Hubay study, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was added to &lequo;low-dose”CMF (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and fluorouracil). In the NSABP B-09 study, NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) was added to melphalan [L-phenylalanine mustard (P)] and fluorouracil (F).
In the Hubay study, patients with a positive (more than 3 fmol) estrogen receptor were more likely to benefit. In the NSABP B-09 study in women age 50-59 years, only women with both estrogen and progesterone receptor levels 10 fmol or greater clearly benefited, while there was a nonstatistically significant trend toward adverse effect in women with both estrogen and progesterone receptor levels less than 10 fmol. In women age 60-70 years, there was a trend toward a beneficial effect of NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) without any clear relationship to estrogen or progesterone receptor status.
Three prospective studies (ECOG-1178, Toronto, NATO) using NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) adjuvantly as a single agent demonstrated an improved disease-free survival following total mastectomy and axillary dissection for postmenopausal women with positive axillary nodes compared to placebo/no treatment controls. The NATO study also demonstrated an overall survival benefit.
Node Negative - Individual Studies
NSABP B-14, a prospective, double-blind, randomized study, compared NOLVADEX (tamoxifen citrate) to placebo in women with axillary node-negative, estrogen-receptor positive ( ≥ 10 fmol/mg cytosol protein) breast cancer (as adjuvant therapy, following total mastectomy and axillary dissection, or segmental resection
