MHRA Guidance regarding Tamoxifen

Ask our Nurses your questions
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I understand new guidance has been issued by UK MHRA regarding Tamoxifen use in over 65 women, particularly if taking Gabapentin (which I am). I have been on Tamoxifen for 3 years.

My GP has requested an ECG for me but as this is all done online I have not been able to have a conversation about the risks. I did find some online information about the MHRA guidance which was issued in November 2025 and it relates to heart rhythms.

Has anyone else received an appointment for an ECG?

Can a Breast Cancer nurse offer any advice?

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I was initally prescribed Tamoxifen and was afraid to take it due to my medical history - when I queried it they changed it to Anastrozole . When I was on Anastrozole I did have an ECG as I was suffering episodes of a thumping heart alongside my hot flushes - it was normal. I don’t know the answer to your questions but you should certainly ask a BCN - if they aren’t sure they will have access to a Pharmacist who can give them the most up to date guidance . I would say that it’s worth checking as from my experience personal history sometimes goes under the radar when they are prescribing hormone therapy. The Nurses here may come back to you with a definitive answer but you would still need to speak to your team . Xx

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Hi @jan_del_mar,

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Ask Our Nurses service co-ordinator

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4

Hello jan_del_mar

Thank you for your post regarding tamoxifen

Like any drug, tamoxifen can cause side effects. Everyone reacts differently to drugs, and some people have more side effects than others.

It’s important to consider your individual medical history and any other medication you may be taking such as the gabapentin you mention and discuss with your breast care nurse, treatment team or GP. They will be able to assess your risk of side effects and the benefits of taking the medication.

It may also be helpful to speak with your pharmacist as @JoanneN suggests.

As you say, recent MHRA information around tamoxifen (Nolvadex brand) does advise ECG monitoring for some people with specific risk factors for cardiac side effects. Although this risk is small, and relates to certain brands of tamoxifen, it’s understandable that you feel concerned and would like to know if others have been called for an ECG.

As your GP has already requested an ECG for you it would be helpful to request a review with them to discuss your results and what this means for you.

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