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side effects of tamoxifen

belle18
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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.

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    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.

  • Offline in reply to Magpiemaggie

    Thank you so much for your advice. I am well past menopause and have been on every tablet, ending on tamoxifen as I was advised that the side effects would be less but I would have to take it for ten years. That has certainly not been the case for me ans I have really suffered. Do you remember the brand name? That information would be very helpful. Thank you.

  • Offline in reply to belle18

    Sorry but I don't remember the brand. I tried searching my posts on here but it only goes back 3 years and my dx was 7 years ago.

    I would caution you and others not to dismiss the joint pain believing its a side effect of tamoxifen. I repeatedly presented to my GP over the years with joint pain, the GP got in touch with my breast team who advised that it was a side effect and was and still am prescribed pain relief. I thought the joint pain would ease after stopping hormone treatment but it didn't and got worse. 7 weeks ago I demanded an x-ray. My GP got in touch last week to tell me she needs to speak to me about the x-ray results. I have a feeling it's not good news and will know tomorrow when we speak what the damage is. Don't let that happen to you.

  • Offline in reply to Magpiemaggie

    Maggie 

    sorry to hear you are still having joint pain hopefully all turns out well for you love Lara xxx 

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