Tamoxifen and Bone Density in Women with Mastalgia
Author Information
Author(s): I.S. Fentiman, M. Caleffi, A. Rodin, B. Murby, I. Fogelman
Primary Institution: Guy's Hospital, London, UK
Hypothesis
Does short or medium-term administration of tamoxifen affect bone mineral content in women with mastalgia?
Conclusion
Tamoxifen treatment for up to 6 months does not significantly affect bone density in the lumbar spine or femur in premenopausal women with mastalgia.
Supporting Evidence
- Bone mineral content was measured using dual photon absorptiometry before and after treatment.
- No significant changes in bone density were observed after 3 months of treatment.
- Tamoxifen was administered in two different dosages with no observed dose-response effect.
- Long-term follow-up showed no significant difference in bone density compared to age-matched controls.
Takeaway
Tamoxifen, a medicine for breast pain, doesn't hurt bones in women who take it for a short time.
Methodology
Women with mastalgia received either tamoxifen or placebo, and bone mineral content was measured before and after treatment using dual photon absorptiometry.
Limitations
The study only assessed short to medium-term effects and did not evaluate long-term consequences beyond 2 years.
Participant Demographics
Predominantly premenopausal women with moderate to severe mastalgia.
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