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Tamoxifen

Prescription
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Competitive antagonist/partial agonist of estrogen receptors (ERα). In estrogen-receptor-positive cancer cells, blocks estrogen-dependent growth signaling. In other tissues, may have partial agonist effects (uterus, bone).

At a glance

Class
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

CAUTION: Paradoxically stimulates uterine tissue in dogs (agonist effect), causi
Dose
0.4–1 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Uterine stimulation risk applies to cats as well
Dose
Route
PO
Frequency
N/A
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Uterine health (ultrasound)Vaginal discharge monitoringOphthalmic exam with prolonged use
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Nolvadex
Tamofen

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Tamoxifen?
Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (serm) used in pets. Competitive antagonist/partial agonist of estrogen receptors (ERα). In estrogen-receptor-positive cancer cells, blocks estrogen-dependent growth signaling. In other tissues, may have partial agonist effects (uterus, bone).
What is Tamoxifen used for in pets?
Tamoxifen is used in veterinary medicine for: CAUTION: Paradoxically stimulates uterine tissue in dogs (agonist effect), causi; Uterine stimulation risk applies to cats as well.
What is the Tamoxifen dose for dogs?
For dogs, Tamoxifen is typically dosed as follows — CAUTION: Paradoxically stimulates uterine tissue in dogs (agonist effect), causi: 0.4–1 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Tamoxifen dose for cats?
For cats, Tamoxifen is typically dosed as follows — Uterine stimulation risk applies to cats as well: undefined undefined PO N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Tamoxifen need a prescription?
Yes. Tamoxifen is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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