I am still here, gratefully and anxiously.  

So, this is a very random post — random, just like Tamoxifen side effects.

I thought this topic deserved a discussion, because I know how much patients struggle with Tamoxifen and sticking to a brand that works for them, at least until pharma changes our plans.

I have some updates about Mayne Pharma and Teva brands.

A few years ago, I wrote about how Mayne Pharma acquired Teva (my brand), making it difficult for patients to access the Teva brand, because, well . . . the medical community doesn’t really address these issues with their patients and pharmacies. They only follow protocols. You can read my previous related posts here.

If you have been taking Mayne Pharma Teva (NDC CODE: 51862-446-30; 20mg/30-day supply) but can no longer access it, this is because Mayne and Teva are no longer collaborating. Mayne Pharma now manufactures their own Tamoxifen inhouse and so does Teva. The good news is that their formula has NOT changed. If you have been doing well on Mayne Pharma Teva, you can try the new NDC CODE: 51862-643-30 (for the 20mg Mayne Pharma bottle) and 51862-642-30 (for the 10mg Mayne Pharma bottle). You can visit this website to find out about the active and inactive ingredients. Simply enter the NDC code at the top, and scroll down for this information. You’ll be able to compare and confirm that the ingredients have not changed. (Note: Mayne Pharma Teva was really Mayne Pharma’s formula, NOT Teva’s.)

Now let’s talk Teva. If you used to take this brand prior to Mayne Pharma’s acquisition of Teva, the good news is that Teva is back! I spoke to one of their medical representatives and they confirmed that they have NOT changed their formula since 2011. So, if you were taking this brand and did well on it, you can give it a try again. Simply give your pharmacist this NDC CODE: 00591-2473-30 (for the 20mg bottle) and 00591-2472-60 (for the 10mg bottle).

As for me, I will continue with Mayne Pharma’s formula and see how I do.

But wait, I’ve already done 10 years on Tamoxifen! That’s right, I have. However, my oncologist has extended it for me because of my age and ATM mutation. (Unfortunately, my ATM mutation comes without the ability to withdraw cash). How are my side effects, you asked? About the same….

Has your Dr. extended Tamoxifen for you? How are you doing?