What are experiences with Tamoxifen for post-menopausal breast cancer?

I was prescribed 5 mg (need to cut 10 mg) in half for 3 years. I was super hesitant but thought I would try….im now ready to get off it. Side effects include insomnia, dryness, hair loss…my oncotype score was low, 8, which is an indicator of low reoccurrence. Just posted that I’m thinking of going off it. I’m 67 and had a valve replacement last year…I’m sick and tired of feeling sick and tired!

Thank you for responding. I am so conflicted. My Oncotype DX was 16 and getting on Tamoxifen lowers recurrence by 4%. I just don’t know if that 4% is worth the side effects. I don’t have to start I til after radiation, which gives me time to weigh my options. I am frustrated that this is the only treatment available for this type of cancer. I am also worried about the increased risk of endometrial cancer and my sensitivity to hormonal shifts. Getting off of HRT in May sent me into a tailspin. I cannot imagine what hormone blockers will do.

I too am contemplating whether I want to do hormone blockers. I was stage 3 breast cancer ER+/PR+, HER2-. I had a mastectomy in Jan. Finished 8 rounds of chemo and now in the middle of radiation. I am also hoping for reconstruction. I do not yet have expander in. I was told I had to wait until after radiation (9 mos to year after). Im anxious about how radiation will affect my skin and ability to get reconstruction. I am also recently into menopause so believe that hormone blockers would have been much more important before menopause.

Same here, Katie. I see my surgeon in a few weeks to discuss plan for reconstruction. Will have to wait until March to ensure I am healed after radiation. They said I would have to wait at least 6 months after radiation before they can do the reconstruction.

Many community members share similar questions about hormone therapy decisions and have found it helpful to discuss their experiences with different approaches. Each person's journey with treatment decisions is unique, and it's encouraging to see someone taking time to research and consider all options. The community here has members who can share their perspectives on various aspects of hormone therapy, including different dosing experiences and decision-making processes. Connecting with others who have faced similar choices can provide valuable insights as you work with your medical team to determine the best path forward.