Tamoxifen & Antidepressants: new research

The researchers from the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto, Canada, suggest the antidepressant paroxetine can 'reduce or abolish' the benefit of tamoxifen in women with breast cancer.

There are several other types of antidepressants which have not been shown in this research to reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen.

Meg McArthur, from Breakthrough Breast Cancer, says:

“This research is welcome because it gives an insight into how the effectiveness of tamoxifen could be influenced by taking antidepressants. Tamoxifen remains a beneficial treatment for breast cancer and as several antidepressants are available doctors should be able to find the right combination for patients.

“This should not put patients off taking tamoxifen and any concerns should be discussed with their doctor.”