The FDA has approved the marketing of tamoxifen oral solution (Soltamox™, Savient) for the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. This is the first liquid form of drug tamoxifen to be available in the U.S.

This product has caused uterine cancer, strokes, and blood clots, but the benefits may outweigh the risks in women who already have breast cancer. It should not be used in women who need a coumarin-type anticoagulant. Cataracts may also be more common with the use of this drug. Adverse reactions include hot flashes and vaginal discharge.

In a new study, tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex drug, AstraZeneca), best known as a treatment for breast cancer, dramatically reduced symptoms of the manic phase of bipolar disorder more quickly than many standard medications for the mentalillness. By the end of the study, 63% of the patients taking tamoxifen had reduced manic symptoms, compared with only 13% of those taking a placebo. Patients taking generic tamoxifen responded by the fifth day.

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In a new study, tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex drags, AstraZeneca), best known as a treatment for breast cancer, dramatically reduced symptoms of the manic phase of bipolar disorder more quickly than many standard medications for the mental illness. By the end of the study, 63% of the patients taking tamoxifen had reduced manic symptoms, compared with only 13% of those taking a placebo. Patients taking tamoxifen responded by the fifth day.

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A new model for calculating invasive breast cancer drug risk (the CARE model) gives improved estimates of the number of breast cancers that might develop in African-American women 50 to 79 years of age. An earlier model had been based primarily on data in Caucasian women.

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