About fulvestrant

Many breast cancers need the hormone oestrogen to grow. Some of these breast cancers are 'oestrogen-receptor-positive' which means the cancer cells contain oestrogen receptors. Fulvestrant works by preventing oestrogen from binding to these receptors, which in turn helps block the action of oestrogen on the cancer cells and the growth of the tumour.

Before using fulvestrant

Before using fulvestrant make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have not gone through the menopause.
• If you have a bleeding disorder or have problems with your blood clotting.
• If you have osteoporosis (loss of bone density).
• If you have problems with alcohol. (This is because fulvestrant injection contains alcohol).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to use fulvestrant

• Before you begin this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Fulvestrant will be injected slowly into the muscles in your buttock by your doctor or nurse.
• Usually, your second dose will be given 2 weeks after the initial dose, and then doses are given once each month.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so you can be given this treatment and your progress can be monitored. Your doctor may also want to do tests to check your blood from time to time.
• Before having any kind of medical treatment, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are having fulvestrant treatment.

Can fulvestrant cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you experience an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, mouth or throat, or if a leg or arm becomes swollen and painful, contact your doctor straight away.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store fulvestrant

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store at 2 - 8°C (in a refrigerator).
• Store in the original packaging to protect from light.

Important information about all medicines