Tamoxifen in Mastalgia: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objectives: Tamoxifen is prescribed for chronic mastalgia at a dosage of one 10- or 20-mg tablet for 3-6 months. A topical preparation of this drug has recently been approved. The aim of this study was to meta-analyze the effectiveness of tamoxifen and its different regimens for the treatment of mastalgia. We also sought to summarize the side effects and the follow-up results of these treatments.

Data sources: We searched the databases of PubMed/ MEDLINE, Central, Embase, and EBSCO from August 2021 to September 2021.

Study selection: Articles on the effects of tamoxifen in mastalgia were searched, and randomized controlled trials were retrieved for inclusion in this study. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and we selected 9 articles for the meta-analysis.

Data extraction and synthesis: A proforma was prepared for data collection. RevMan 5.4 software was used for methodological quality assessment, statistical analysis, and preparation of forest plots. Oral tamoxifen performed better than placebo (risk ratio [RR] 2.04; 95% CI 1.49-2.78, P < 0.001). No significant difference in efficacy was seen between the 10- and 20-mg dosages (RR 1.08; 95% CI 0.97-1.21, P = 0.18) when used for 3 months.

Conclusion: Oral tamoxifen is helpful in long-standing mastalgia. It is safe and effective at an oral dose of 10 mg.

Keywords: breast pain; fibrocystic breast disease; mastalgia; mastodynia; tamoxifen.