Tamoxifen is hormonal treatment for estrogenA steroid sex hormone. Estrogen's structure is closely related to cholesterol. Produced by the ovaries, estrogen has effects on the reproductive, cardiovascular and skeletal systems. Estrogen is also a growth factor for some types of cells, including breast cells. Inhibitors of estrogen function such as tamoxifen and arimidex are used to block the growth effects of estrogen. See also, estrogen receptor. responsive breast cancer. Although tamoxifen is an older drug, and newer ways of blocking the activity or production of estrogen have been developed, a new study suggests that the benefits of taking it may go beyond cancer. The study found that taking tamoxifen for the recommended five year period led to a reduction in deaths due to heart disease (heart attacks/strokes).
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