Tamoxifen and Hair Loss

Hair loss may be a common complaint in people taking tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex^®, Soltamox™). In one clinical study, this was reported in up to 5.2 percent of women taking the drug. However, other studies have not shown hair loss to be one of tamoxifen's side effects. Given how common hair loss is in the general population (and in people with cancer), it is difficult to say whether hair loss is caused by the medicine, genetics, other factors, or a combination of these things.

 

If you experience hair loss while taking tamoxifen, talk with your healthcare provider. Depending on how severe the hair loss is, there are things that he or she may be able to do. If your symptoms continue to be bothersome, or if your healthcare provider believes the medicine is causing your hair loss, he or she may recommend trying another breast cancer medication.