Forum Discussion

Ned7's avatar
Ned7
Member
12 years ago

In need of some ideas!

Hi ladies, I have a few queries, I will be starting tomoxafen in a month or two and have just found out that the anti depressant I take(arapax) is a no no. They need to change my antidepressant. Has anyone else had this problem and if so what did they change you to? I suffer anxiety panic disorder and have done for over twenty years, Arapax really works well so I'm a tad nervous going off it while trying to deal with everything else.

My other query is my finger nails are starting to come off, any suggestions? I  finished chemo in Jan.

Thanks for listening.

Nerida

6 Replies

  • Annie_Gayed's avatar
    Annie_Gayed
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Nerida,

    This is Annie from BCNA. Aropax does reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen, however your GP or oncologist may be able to point you towards a good alternative so it's worth having a chat with them.

    As for fingernails, unfortunately the side effect you're experiencing is quite common in women undergoing chemo. We've got some good information on the nail changes page of our website, including helpful tips from other women.

    All the best Nerida

    ~ Annie

  • Annie_Gayed's avatar
    Annie_Gayed
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Nerida,

    This is Annie from BCNA. Aropax does reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen, however your GP or oncologist may be able to point you towards a good alternative so it's worth having a chat with them.

    As for fingernails, unfortunately the side effect you're experiencing is quite common in women undergoing chemo. We've got some good information on the nail changes page of our website, including helpful tips from other women.

    All the best Nerida

    ~ Annie

  • Linda27's avatar
    Linda27
    Member
    12 years ago

    My nails have discoloured and started to lift off.  I also ended up with an infection under my nails which just made it worse.  I have cut my nails short (not that they were long) as I kept knocking them and the pain was terrible. I wear gloves when I am gardening or washing dishes.  I guess that when all is said and done it is a small price to pay and your nails will grow back.

  • Linda27's avatar
    Linda27
    Member
    12 years ago

    My nails have discoloured and started to lift off.  I also ended up with an infection under my nails which just made it worse.  I have cut my nails short (not that they were long) as I kept knocking them and the pain was terrible. I wear gloves when I am gardening or washing dishes.  I guess that when all is said and done it is a small price to pay and your nails will grow back.

  • Linda27's avatar
    Linda27
    Member
    12 years ago

    My nails have discoloured and started to lift off.  I also ended up with an infection under my nails which just made it worse.  I have cut my nails short (not that they were long) as I kept knocking them and the pain was terrible. I wear gloves when I am gardening or washing dishes.  I guess that when all is said and done it is a small price to pay and your nails will grow back.

  • Ned7's avatar
    Ned7
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi Robyn, my pointer fingers and one of my thumbs are the ones giving me grief, all the rest have a dark staining. There is new growth coming through. Slow like my hair re growth but coming. X Nerida.