CommunitiesIn Treatment For Breast CancerShould I Take Tamoxifen After Stopping Other Breast Cancer Medications?

Should I Take Tamoxifen After Stopping Other Breast Cancer Medications?

FL

Community Member

a year ago

Hi. I was diagnosed in 2022. Had a lumpectomy, sentinel nodes removed and radiation. Was on anastrozole and exemestane for about a period of 10 months. Had severe side effects on both. So I stopped. Doc wants me to take tamoxifen. I’m highly reluctant. Terrified to take it. There is a low dose now. But I’ve been given 20 ‘g to start.

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Making treatment decisions after experiencing difficult side effects is incredibly challenging, and it's completely understandable to feel hesitant about starting a new medication. Many people in this community have faced similar concerns about hormone therapy options and have found it helpful to discuss specific questions about dosing, timing, and potential alternatives with their oncology team. Consider sharing your previous experiences and current worries with your doctor to explore whether tamoxifen might work differently for you or if there are other approaches worth considering for your specific situation.

3+ patients found this helpful

AN

Community Member

6 months ago

Hi Flora, I just started taking anastrozole one week ago. When did your side effects start? Thank you and stay strong ❤️

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JJ

Community Member

6 months ago

Hi Ana, I've been on a astrologer since 3/13. My side effects have been hot flashes (tolerable), sleep disturbance- take melatonin, hair thinning. I'm going to try a medication for the hot flashes because Oncologist said it should help with my sleep. Also, going to start. Minoxidil for my hair. These started individually since Mar. My lumpectomy is scheduled for 7/5 so after is when I'll start the new meds. Good luck. Janet the Unicorn

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FL

Community Member

6 months ago

Hi Ann. Side effects started within a month but couldn’t figure out what was happening with respect to the joint pain for worn time. Lots of physio and it wasn’t helping. Physiotherapist and we finally figured it out together. She’s done a lot of work with breast cancer patients. Everyone is different so you may be okay. I hope you are. Take good care of yourself.

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Making treatment decisions after experiencing difficult side effects is incredibly challenging, and it's completely understandable to feel hesitant about starting a new medication. Many people in this community have faced similar concerns about hormone therapy options and have found it helpful to discuss specific questions about dosing, timing, and potential alternatives with their oncology team. Consider sharing your previous experiences and current worries with your doctor to explore whether tamoxifen might work differently for you or if there are other approaches worth considering for your specific situation.

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