Drug Interactions between sodium phenylbutyrate / taurursodiol and toremifene

Food may affect the absorption of sodium phenylbutyrate. A high-fat, high-calorie meal (approximately 800 to 1000 calories; 500 to 600 calories from fat, 250 calories from carbohydrate, 150 calories from protein) has been shown to reduce the absorption of sodium phenylbutyrate, although it is unknown what impact this may have on the overall effectiveness of the medication. The manufacturer recommends taking sodium phenylbutyrate before a meal or snack. This is especially important if you weigh less than 70 kg (approximately 154 pounds). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions on how to take this or other medications you are prescribed. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medication without first talking to your doctor.

You should avoid drinking grapefruit juice during treatment with toremifene. Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of toremifene. This can make you more likely to develop side effects such as vaginal bleeding, blood clots, or an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious or life-threatening. Contact your doctor if you experience potential signs and symptoms of blood clots such as chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden loss of vision, and pain, redness or swelling your arms or legs. You should also seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or fast or pounding heartbeats during treatment with toremifene.

Talk to your doctor before using toremifene with soy products. There is some evidence that substances present in soy may stimulate breast tumor growth and interfere with the action of toremifene, although this has not been proven. Whether soy products are effective for hot flashes is also uncertain. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.