Tamoxifen

Hi Debbieana,

I worried about Tamoxifen side effects. I've now been on it for seven weeks and haven't really experienced anything other than fleeting hot flushes confined to my scalp (I'm wearing a wig post chemo). I spoke to my oncologist two weeks ago who said if I was going to experience additional side effects from Tamoxifen, I would have noticed them by now.  

You mention you have just finished radiation. I did chemo then radiation and coped well with both - then burst into unexpected tears immediately after my last rads session and felt a bit emotional for several days. I think it was the release after 'holding things together' during treatment. As we all know, BC anxiety doesn't stop when treatment stops, so it's vital to implement a regime of things that can keep you focused (distracted!) and fulfilled, be it exercise, good books, movies, etc.

Keep notes on how you are feeling so you can discuss this with your oncologist. But I justed wanted to write to represent those of us who seem to be doing fine on Tamoxifen. Fingers crossed you'll be one of them.

Take care,

Peta

what an interesting post--i would try to 'downplay' any initial expereinces and my atttiude is 'going to make it work' and this wouldnt work for everyone but other than the two serious possible side effects i am not reading the side effect profile of this medication.  To me anxiety does come up at different times but 6 months out it is largely resolved--so being ok when it comes up seems to be an option.  I think what is also called anxiety can be part of the hot flush experience.

interested in your iud as i have same one and just had a brief conversation with my oncologist and he seemed to think --if i remember rightly--that tamoxifen would counter balance the iud marina--however i do have it as an area to discuss at next appt--and im wondering if i removed this what would my expeirence be as well---

i also was on hrt for about 5 months before bc; but went off immediately after surgery and that was ok --

I am behind Deanne with Tamoxifen,and I find it the same.I exercise daily,and eat well,and I have no problems at all,except for some hot flushes,whichI had before anyway.I was anxious to start, kind of waiting for something to happen,and nothing did!!!Good diet,exercise and generally taking care of yourself,and hopefully you will do just fine.Take care.xoxRobyn

Thank you for your encouragement Deanne. I was already a good eater and regular exerciser. I'm looking forward to getting back to my exercise. Hopefully my anxiety is nothing to do with the meds and will pass with time. Best Debbie x

I was anxious about starting on tamoxifen and did have some nausea for the first few days which I think was from being anxious. It all settled and while I do have some emotional times I think this is pretty normal after diagnosis and treatment for cancer. I have been taking tamoxifen for 4 months and believe that looking after my health by eating well and exercising is helping to keep any side effects from being too bad. I actually feel calmer than before mood wise, have lost a little weight and have only mild hot flushes and a bit of stiffness when I first get up. I have a new enthusiasm for life and am determined to do all that I can to stay feeling fit and healthy, even on tamoxifen. Give yourself some time to settle with it and to come to terms with what has happened to you. You should have a better idea of how you are going with it by the time you see your oncologist again. I really hope you are one of the lucky ones too, but do what you can to counteract those potential side effects and help your body cope. Good luck. Deanne xxx

I was anxious about starting on tamoxifen and did have some nausea for the first few days which I think was from being anxious. It all settled and while I do have some emotional times I think this is pretty normal after diagnosis and treatment for cancer. I have been taking tamoxifen for 4 months and believe that looking after my health by eating well and exercising is helping to keep any side effects from being too bad. I actually feel calmer than before mood wise, have lost a little weight and have only mild hot flushes and a bit of stiffness when I first get up. I have a new enthusiasm for life and am determined to do all that I can to stay feeling fit and healthy, even on tamoxifen. Give yourself some time to settle with it and to come to terms with what has happened to you. You should have a better idea of how you are going with it by the time you see your oncologist again. I really hope you are one of the lucky ones too, but do what you can to counteract those potential side effects and help your body cope. Good luck. Deanne xxx