Tamoxifenandantidepressantsare often prescribed for people with breast cancer.
This is a form of breast cancer fueled by the hormoneestrogen.
Doing so can slow or even stop the spread of cancer.
Jose A. Bernat Bacete / Moment / Getty Images
The use of antidepressants is fueled by high rates of depression.
Among people with breast cancer, the rate may be as high as 33%.
Antidepressants can be valuable in more ways than one.
In addition to treating depression, antidepressants may help ease some of the side effects of tamoxifen.
All drugs are dosed based on the expected rate of metabolization.
With tamoxifen, an enzyme called CYP2D6 is tasked with breaking it down into its active and inactive components.
The active component, calledendoxifen, is the one that binds to estrogen receptors on cancer cells.
SSRIs are problematic because several are strong CYP2D6 inhibitors.
If needed, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist who is trained in the appropriate use of antidepressants.
Summary
Tamoxifen is an important medication used to treat estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer.
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