side effects of tamoxifen

I had breast cancer almost four years ago. I have been on all the anti-hormone drugs but the side effects have been really severe. I have now been on tamoxifen for three years and the side effects keep increasing although I was told that my body would adjust in time. It is like a tick list for almost everything.  I really am trying to deal with it all but am feeling very depressed that things are getting worse, especially as I was advised to take tamoxifen for ten years. I hve been given some asvice but exercise is difficuly due to severe joint pain. I am also suffering hair loss and weight gain on my abdomen, to name a few. I would appreciate any advice.

  • Hi belle18

    I was diagnosed back in 2018 and placed on tamoxifen. I only lasted 9 months on it due to the side effects. Thankfully I was post menopausal and therefore changed to Anastrozole. It also came with side effects but they were less than tamoxifen and managed to tolerate it. I was taken of Anastrozole 6 months early due to a dexa scan showed bone density loss, which is a side effect of Anastrozole. 

    You don't mention your age or if your near or going through the menopause so not sure if you're a candidate for Anastrozole. I do however remember when I was taking Anastrozole, there was a brand that suited me better, so perhaps asking for a change of brand may help.

    I suggest you have a word with your GP and go from there.

    Fingers crossed this will get better for you.

  • Belle iM also 3 years on tamoxifen I suffered bad for two and a half years the last 6 months side affects seem to have disappeared, my weight gain crippled me so I joined a gym and recently lost 2.5 stone this had helped me massively . 
    I also take lots of supplements and I now feel brand new hopefully this will happen for you soon xx love Lara take care x