Selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)FDA-Approved

Tamoxifen: Patient Information & Safety Notes

Name: Tamoxifen: Patient Information & Safety Notes
Creator: OmniRx Health

Also known as Nolvadex, Soltamox

Other names: nolvadex, soltamox

Tamoxifen is an FDA-approved SERM used for treatment and risk reduction of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. In males, it is used off-label to prevent or treat gynecomastia and to restore hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function after anabolic steroid use (post-cycle therapy — not an FDA-approved indication).

FDA-approved for: hormone receptor-positive breast cancer treatment and chemoprevention in high-risk women; ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Off-label use in males (gynecomastia, PCT) is not FDA-approved.

Reviewed by the OmniRx Health clinical team•Last reviewed Jul 4, 2026

In plain language

What Tamoxifen is used for

FDA-approved: hormone receptor-positive breast cancer treatment and prevention
Off-label: gynecomastia in males; post-cycle therapy after anabolic steroid use

Taking this medicine

How it is administered

Oral tablet

Read before you decide

Risks and precautions

Risks and warnings

Menopausal-like symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats)
Nausea, rash, headache, fatigue
Increased risk of blood clots (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
Endometrial cancer risk with long-term use

Who should not take it

History of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Concurrent warfarin use (increases bleeding risk significantly)

Common questions

Patient questions

Is tamoxifen safe for men?

Tamoxifen is sometimes used off-label in males for gynecomastia or to restore hormonal function after anabolic steroid use. This is not an FDA-approved use. A provider should evaluate whether this is appropriate, as tamoxifen carries blood clot and other risks.

Related medications

AnastrozoleNon-steroidal aromatase inhibitorFDA-approved ExemestaneIrreversible steroidal aromatase inhibitorFDA-approved Testosterone CypionateAndrogen (Schedule III controlled substance)Controlled / anabolic

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This information is educational — not medical advice.

This page is provided for general educational purposes and summarizes publicly available data from sources such as the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. It is not a substitute for the judgment of a licensed clinician and should not be used to start, stop, or change any medication. It may be incomplete or out of date, and individual circumstances vary. Always talk with your prescriber or pharmacist about your specific medications and health conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

Have medication questions?

A licensed OmniRx provider can review your health history and medication list. Availability and treatment options are determined individually.

Sources & References

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