Long-term Tamoxifen Treatment for Breast Cancer

Book excerpt: During the past twenty years tamoxifen has become the most widely prescribed and most successful drug used in the treatment of breast cancer. In this volume, editor V. Craig Jordan provides articles that trace the development, pharmacology, and clinical research surrounding this drug which, by the year 2000, could be used to treat as many as one million women annually. Drawing from research conducted by specialists in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy, the series of articles describes the clinical testing of tamoxifen, highlighting the benefits. Studies show that tamoxifen lowers cholesterol and can potentially protect women against osteoporosis and fatal coronary heart disease. Equally important is a discussion of side effects and possible drug interactions and how these issues relate to patient concerns. An investigation of the development of a new class of drugs for use after tamoxifen fails provides valuable insight into future treatments, as the contributers consider possible resistance to tamoxifen. This volume provides invaluable information for physicians and surgeons who care for patients with breast cancer and for women interested in exploring this therapeutic dimension.