Can you use nicotine patches when on Tamoxifen?

I've had breast cancer and am on tamoxifen. I want to give up smoking – is it safe for me to use nicotine patches?

We cannot find any published research about the use of nicotine patches for women who are taking tamoxifen. We contacted the pharmaceutical company, Pharmacia, who produce one of the nicotine patches called Nicorette to find out more information. Their medical information service searched their information database and through published studies to see if there was any reason not to take the two together.

They tell us that taking tamoxifen and using Nicorette will “have no adverse effects that they know of”. So, they do not have any records of people taking these drugs together and having any problems.

Do bear in mind that this is only one company’s advice and we would suggest that you talk to your GP or cancer specialist about this. They may want to monitor you for a while when you first use the patches. It is important that you read the information leaflet enclosed in the nicotine patches before you start. This will tell you when you shouldn't use them. Nicotine patches can have side effects and it is important that you use the correct dose in relation to how much you usually smoke. If you begin to use nicotine patches and start to feel unwell in anyway, you should remove the patch and arrange to see your doctor.

We've checked the product information for tamoxifen and there is no mention of nicotine in any of the leaflets (as of March 2005).

It is great that you have decided to give up smoking. It is not an easy thing to do, especially if you have smoked for many years. But the benefits that you will gain will make it well worth it. Your GP and consultant are both likely to be very supportive of your decision. We have some useful tips on giving up smoking on the Cancer Research UK website. This also gives details of the NHS quitline (freephone 0800 002200). The people who work on this phone line are all experienced at helping people who are trying to give up smoking. So if you find that you are struggling at times, which is very natural, you may find it useful to give them a call for some extra encouragement. Good luck.