Tamoxifen

Hi, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 IDC  Grade 1 several months ago. I had a lumpectomy in February, with 2 lymph nodes removed. Margins were clear and it has not spread to my lymph nodes. The radiologist wants to start a double dose of radiation for  shorter period 3 weeks and I met with the oncologist yesterday and he wants to put me on Tamoxifen. I've read so much on the side effects of this drug and I'm nervous with the risk of cervical cancer, joint/pain, blurry vision and weight gain. He did say the treatment of the drug outweighs the risk. I know a few women say they have tolerated it well but what I've read and heard so far the majority don't. Can anyone share their experience on this drug as well as what I can expect when radiation starts. Thank you!

Parents
  • Hi Lynn B

    I've been taking tamoxifen since October last year, on the whole it's not that bad for me, there are some side effects but these far out weigh the consequence of not taking it.  I have gained weight, but is that more due to the wine and chocolate Hahahaha who knows.  The radiotherapy was over in minutes and the nurses are great.  I didn't suffer anything bad and feel fine now.  The worse part for me was driving to Sheffield and back every day

    Please try not to worry to much (I know that's hard) but like I said to my hubby, it's like getting on a train and riding until the conductor tells you it's time to get off! Th  

     

  • That's good to hear. From reading the internet I just went into a full panic and was just ill when he told me I had to take it. Thank you for responding. So I guess you can still drink alcohol, do you know if you can take supplemental vitamins as well?

Reply Children
  • Hi, been taking tamoxifen for over a year now, hot flushes are terrible but I carry a fan in every bag! I take starflower oil daily which is supposed to help, it was recommended by my oncologist so must be good. My tolerance for alcohol has dropped, the day after is 10 times worse than before but I take those days as I'm just happy to be here.

    Good luck!!