After surgery, you might benefit from additional therapy to prevent the growth of any breast cancer cells that might have spread but are undetectable. Some cancers respond to treatment with hormones. These are usually drugs that counteract estrogen. If breast cancer has spread to lymph nodes, tamoxifen reduces the risk of recurrence by about one-third. Its widespread use prevents an estimated 10,000 deaths each year.
Tamoxifen is less toxic than most anti-cancer drugs.
Tamoxifen can reduce the risk of breast cancer in some women. The best candidates are women at high risk of inherited forms of the disease. If you re at high-risk, talk with your doctor to weigh all your options for reducing breast cancer risk. Options include close surveillance, such as annual mammograms, regular exams by your physician and breast self-exams. Another option is preventive surgery to remove your breasts.