| Common Brands | Fareston |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Fareston is a prescription medicine used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It contains the active ingredient toremifene citrate, which belongs to a group of drugs known as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs).
Fareston is mainly used to treat:
It is similar to another well-known medicine called tamoxifen. Fareston works by blocking estrogen in breast tissue. This helps slow down or stop the growth of certain types of breast cancer cells that rely on estrogen to grow.
This medication is often part of a larger cancer treatment plan that may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
Keep taking Fareston even if you feel well—stopping suddenly may affect your treatment.
Fareston works by interacting with estrogen receptors in the body. Estrogen is a hormone that can help some types of breast cancer cells grow. Fareston helps to block estrogen’s effect on these cancer cells.
Here’s how Fareston works:
Because it works differently in different parts of the body, Fareston can act like estrogen blockers in the breast and mild estrogen in other areas like bones. This helps protect against osteoporosis in some patients while still treating cancer.
Like all medicines, Fareston may cause side effects. Some are mild and go away with time, while others may require medical attention.
Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden swelling, or fainting.
Before using Fareston, tell your doctor if you:
Always follow your doctor’s advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Fareston can interact with other medications. Some interactions may increase side effects or reduce how well Fareston works.
Tell your doctor if you take:
Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Fareston—it can interfere with how your body processes the drug.
Here are some key guidelines for taking Fareston safely:
Your doctor will regularly monitor your progress and adjust treatment if needed.
Fareston is a prescription-only medication. You must see a licensed healthcare provider to receive it.
Before prescribing Fareston, your doctor will:
Never take Fareston unless it has been specifically prescribed for you. Breast cancer treatment is highly personal and must be managed by a cancer specialist.
What is Fareston used for?
It is prescribed to treat metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive tumors.
What is the active ingredient?
Toremifene citrate, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM).
How does Fareston work?
It blocks estrogen receptors in breast tissue, slowing or stopping the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells.
Does Fareston cure breast cancer?
No, it does not cure cancer, but it helps control tumor growth and spread.
How is Fareston taken?
Orally, as a tablet (60 mg) once daily, with or without food.
What are the common side effects?
Hot flashes, sweating, nausea, dizziness, vaginal discharge, and leg cramps.
Are there serious side effects?
Yes, possible risks include:
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism)
Stroke
Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)
Eye problems (cataracts, vision changes)
Endometrial cancer (rare)
Who should not take Fareston?
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Patients with history of blood clots, uncontrolled heart rhythm problems, or severe liver disease
Is Fareston safe during pregnancy?
No, it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Effective contraception is required.
Can I take it while breastfeeding?
No, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Does Fareston cause menopause-like symptoms?
Yes, hot flashes, sweating, and vaginal dryness are common.
Does it interact with other medications?
Yes—especially drugs that affect QT prolongation (like certain antibiotics, antifungals, antiarrhythmics, and antipsychotics).
Can Fareston be used in men?
It is not typically used in men, though SERMs have been studied for prostate cancer.
How long is treatment with Fareston?
Therapy is usually long-term, depending on cancer progression and patient tolerance.
Do patients need monitoring while on Fareston?
Yes—regular ECGs (heart rhythm), blood tests, eye exams, and cancer response checks.
What should I avoid while taking Fareston?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase drug levels and should be avoided.
How does Fareston compare to Tamoxifen?
Both are SERMs; Fareston is sometimes used as an alternative in patients intolerant of tamoxifen.
Is there a generic available?
Yes, toremifene citrate is available as a generic.
Where can I get Fareston?
Available at pharmacies with a prescription from an oncologist.
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