What is Tamoxifen?

I refuse to take it

After having a total double mastectomy taking a radical approach.. no lymph node involvement DCIS was in the right breast only..they kept pushing the anaatrazole tamoxicifin etc.. I won't take it The side effects were horrible.

I was diagnosed with Stage 0, DCIS with HR+ HER2- breast cancer. I opted for a lumpectomy and radiation. I researched Tamoxifen and saw a problem with compliance with patients due to annoying and/or dangerous side effects. Knowing my medical family history, I worry about starting this treatment. When speaking to the doctor about my findings and reluctance to take it, she explained how doctors used to prescribe 20mg daily for 5 years. The side effects were many and compliance with the treatment was not good. Now, research has found that 5mg for 3 years is just as effective in preventing breast cancer with NONE of the major side effects associated with the higher dosage. This treatment isn't for the breast I had a lumpectomy and radiation treatment. Tamoxifen serves as a protection so I don't get cancer in my other breast.

Tamoxifen was horrible I was getting 20 hot flashes a day I was miserable and my anxiety was so bad. I got off it and waiting for hot flashes to go away.

Tamoxifen is a hormone therapy medication commonly prescribed for certain types of breast cancer, particularly those that are hormone receptor-positive. This treatment works by blocking estrogen from binding to cancer cells, which can help prevent the cancer from growing or returning. Many others in this community have experience with tamoxifen and may be able to share insights about what to expect - feel free to connect with fellow patients here who understand this journey.