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Fareston Side Effects

Generic name: toremifene

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 5, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Fareston Side Effects associated with toremifene. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Fareston.

Applies to toremifene: oral tablet.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Oral route (tablet)

Toremifene prolongs the QTc interval in a dose- and concentration-related manner and may cause a type of ventricular tachycardia called Torsade de pointes.

This could result in syncope, seizures, and/or death.

Toremifene should not be prescribed to patients with congenital/acquired QT prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia, or uncorrected hypomagnesemia.

Drugs known to prolong the QT interval and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.

Common side effects of Fareston

Some side effects of toremifene may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

  • blindness
  • decreased vision
  • dry eyes
  • feeling of warmth
  • redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, the upper chest
  • sudden sweating
  • sweating

Less common

  • bone pain
  • changes in vision
  • double vision
  • eye pain
  • tearing

Incidence not known

  • blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin
  • cracked, dry, or scaly skin
  • depression
  • difficulty having a bowel movement
  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
  • feeling unusually cold
  • hair loss
  • lack or loss of strength
  • partial or slight paralysis
  • sensation of spinning
  • shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
  • thinning of the hair

Serious side effects of Fareston

Along with its needed effects, toremifene (the active ingredient contained in Fareston) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking toremifene:

Less common

  • anxiety
  • arm, back, or jaw pain
  • blurred vision
  • change in how much and how often you urinate
  • change in vaginal discharge
  • changes in skin color
  • changes in vision
  • changes in weight
  • chest pain, discomfort, tightness, or heaviness
  • confusion
  • constipation
  • cough
  • depression
  • dilated neck veins
  • dizziness, lightheadedness
  • dry mouth
  • fainting
  • fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
  • inability to speak, incoherent speech
  • irregular breathing
  • loss of appetite
  • metallic taste in the tongue
  • muscle weakness
  • nausea
  • pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
  • pain or feeling of pressure in the pelvis
  • pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg
  • seizures
  • severe or sudden headache
  • stomach pain
  • sweating
  • swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
  • temporary blindness
  • tenderness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, prominent superficial veins over the affected area
  • thirst
  • troubled breathing
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vaginal bleeding
  • vomiting
  • weakness in the arm and or leg on one side of the body, sudden and severe

Incidence not known

  • black, tarry stools
  • bleeding gums
  • blood in the urine or stools
  • chills
  • clay-colored stools
  • dark urine
  • fever
  • itching
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
  • rash
  • sore throat
  • sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
  • swollen glands
  • unpleasant breath odor
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • vomiting of blood
  • yellow eyes or skin

For healthcare professionals

Applies to toremifene: oral tablet.

General

Adverse drug reactions are primarily due to the anti-estrogenic actions of this drug and typically occur at the beginning of treatment.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Dermatologic

Hepatic

Gastrointestinal

Genitourinary

Ocular

Metabolic

Nervous system

Other

Psychiatric

Respiratory

Musculoskeletal

Hematologic

Oncologic

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Fareston (toremifene)." Schering Corporation

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

Further information

Fareston side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.