Hi everyone

I was diagnosed with a grade 3 ER+ tumour back in October 2017 at the age of 39 and had lumpectomy, 6 rounds of chemo, 20 sessions of radiotherapy and then prescribed 10 years of Oestrogen. I started Tamoxifen a week after finishing radiotherapy so have been on the drug 3 years.

I am having a difficult time with Tamoxifen - very low mood, apathy, depression like symptoms, fatigue, loss of libido, brain fog, lack of concentration, headaches, disturbed sleep, irregular periods and joint pains. I spoke to the Oncologist over 6 weeks ago and we agreed a 4 week break. The break from Tamoxifen was great and all of my symptoms eased and I felt ao much more like me pre treatment - my husband, friends and family noticed the difference too.

I have now been back on the drug 5 days and my symptkms have started to return noticeably the low mood, sleep problems and fatigue. I have a review again early July to discuss what I am gping to do going forward. My Tamoxifen benefit is 8% which is nearly 3 x times that of the chemo I had apparently and my Oncotype score of 33 put me in a higher risk of recurrence category. The Oncologist originally said he would be very uncomfortable if I came off the drug. For me I feel I have no quality of life taking the drug. 

I feel so conflicted with taking it or not taking it as I am scared of recurrence but equally I feel so crap when on the drug like what is the point?!

Has anyone else faced a similar situation?

Thanks

Jo