Historical.


Tamoxifen which is marketed by ICI as it's monocitrate salt ( C26H29NO.C6H807) known commercially as Nolvadex.

It has been available commercially since the mid 1970's and achieved almost a cult status during the next few decades. At one stage it was touted by many as a miracle drug in the fight against cancer. Tamoxifen emerged from a 1950's research programme aimed at the development of an anti oestrogen oral contraceptive. However this application of Tamoxifen (and also other triphenylethylenes) has been replaced by advancement of interest in their use as both treatment and preventative measures in breast cancer. The exact mechanism by which Tamoxifen works is still unknown however it is thought to be linked to it's effect on Oestrogen in the female body.

 

Above: The commercial form of Tamoxifen - Nolvadex.

Above: Tamoxifen crystals under a high powered microscope.

 

 

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Huw Tanner.Undergraduate Year 2 .Imperial College of Science,Technology and Medicine.

CIT Project

Study of Tamoxifen.