What are the side effects of tamoxifen?

Tamoxifen can cause different side effects for each person, and hearing about real experiences from others in similar situations can be really valuable when making treatment decisions. Many community members have shared their experiences with hormone therapy medications like tamoxifen, including both the challenges and benefits they've noticed. Hopefully others who have taken tamoxifen will share their experiences to help give you a better sense of what to expect.

I am taking Tamoxifen. The only side effect that I have is insomnia. They prescribed trazodone for help with that. Other than that I don’t feel any different.

Yes. People can have very different experiences with tamoxifen. Some have very few side effects, while others notice symptoms that affect their daily life. Common experiences people report include: Hot flashes and night sweats Feeling tired or having lower energy Mood changes, such as irritability or feeling emotional Joint or muscle aches Vaginal dryness or discharge Irregular menstrual periods (if still menstruating) Mild nausea, especially when first starting the medication Some people say they feel completely normal after the first few weeks, while others need time for their bodies to adjust. There are also less common but more serious side effects that require prompt medical attention, such as: Sudden swelling or pain in one leg, chest pain, or shortness of breath (possible blood clot) Unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause Changes in vision Signs of a stroke, such as sudden weakness or difficulty speaking If you're asking because you've started tamoxifen and don't feel right, or you're considering taking it, tell me: How long you've been taking it (or if you haven't started yet). What symptoms you're experiencing.

I haven been taking Tamoxifen for 1 year now. Side effects I have experienced since taking this medication have been Hot flashes/night sweats Mood swings Aches in my bones Headaches Fatigued Low energy to do anything I was on trazodone for insomnia, that stopped working for me. I have considered to stop taking this medication, I have to meet with my oncologist in October to discuss this further.

Hi, I completely understand why you’re asking. Starting tamoxifen can feel like a big adjustment, and many people have questions about how their body might respond. ❤️ Everyone’s experience is different. Some people feel quite normal, while others may notice changes like hot flashes, mood changes, fatigue, joint discomfort, or sleep difficulties. It can take time for your body to adjust, and keeping your healthcare team updated about any changes is very important. I’d love to hear more about your experience — are you just about to start tamoxifen, or have you already been taking it for a while? What is the main concern you have right now: how it may affect your daily life? ❤️

I currently take exemestane