Tamoxifen

I agree with Deanne, bone density and vaginal atrophy are two issues I have also dealt with. My bone density before I started was terrific, and with some care it will see me through but it was originally way above what might be expected, "at my age" (a phrase I have learned to quietly loathe!) but has certainly been impacted on in three and half years.  Vaginal dryness is also something that might have started "at my age", but I am certain it is Femara. You can ameliorate the problem and as far as I know it does not affect everyone. On the positive side I have had no aches, pains, arthritis-type symptoms, flushes or anything of that sort. 

I had almost no side effects on Tamoxifen but have not been so lucky with Femara. At first I had a lot of joint pain but through trial and error (and maybe the passing of time so my body has adjusted) have got on top of that. I take Curcumin (from Turmeric) as a supplement and it has made a big difference to the joint pain. 

The most worrying side effect for me has been the effect on my bone density. Again though,  I have found a solution (I hope) that works for me. I now do weightlifting two times a week and this is helping to improve my bone density. It might be worth having your bone density tested before deciding on your path. Having your ovaries removed (as I found out) is not good for your bone health! You might be fine though but worth checking with your doctors. 

The other issue is a sensitive one, but vaginal atrophy is also a side effect of this treatment. But again there are ways to help this too.

We are all different and some people have no side effects at all on these drugs. The best thing is finding info from the people on this network who are living through these treatments. That is how I have found the help I have needed to live well with minimum effects from my hormones or lack there of!

Thank you Deanne,
bloody hormones!! Have suffered my whole life with hormone problems been to so many doctors who would just say too early for menopause just take evening primrose now I have BC and the hormones are still trying to control my life! I will ask many questions I just thought ovaries removal = no tablets.
does femara have many side affects?
thanks Pam xx

Hi,
It is a bit confusing but in my experience you will still need to take something for hormone therapy even after having your ovaries removed.

I was on Tamoxifen for 2 years, then had my ovaries removed and switched to Femara (Letrozole). It works in a different way to ensure that your body is not producing any estrogen for any cancer to find. Your ovaries are not the only place in your body that produces estrogen, so even if they are removed or shut down using medication, you still need to take either Tamoxifen or one of the Aromatose Inhibitors (that is what Femara, that I take, is).

From what I understand, having my ovaries removed and taking  Femara gives me more protection against recurrence than just taking Tamoxifen. This is all information that I am sure you will be asking and finding out for yourself from your doctors. Ask lots of questions about your particular situation until you are confident your understand your choices and the best path for you. Deanne xxx