Tamoxifen brands and side effects

My partner is currently on Tamoxifen and is suffering with painful joints, bad sleep and loss of labido. I read on previous posts that Tamoxifen comes in different brands and that some brands give worse side effects than others. The brand Relon (Relonchem??) seems to give least side effects. I find it hard to believe that these days we still dont know enough about Tamoxifen in its different forms, and if there are alternatives. It seems a ridiculous catch 22 that either you have to put up with awful side effects, or not take it and run the risk of cance reoccuring. My partner stopped taking it for one day and immediately felt better but then naturally pannicked and went back on the Tamoxifen. Do we know if the binding agents in it can be a cause in different brands? Myn poor partner is tired, worn out, in pain and feels low and generally worn out. Luckily we have a strong relationship and i will back her whatever she needs or decides but why is a supposedly helpful medication so detrimental to her quality of life. Its like the lesser of two evils. I would gratefully appreciate any comments from sufferers and Oncologists for their knowledge and advice. Thank you

  • HI there

    Tamoxifen has been discussed many times on this forum, you could use the search feature and see the conversations. I have been on 4 different brands and settled on one that I could live with. but after having conversations with others on this subject I found that the brand that worked for me did not work for others. So have come to the conclusion that a particular brand should match the individuals make up. Has your partner been to her GP about the side effects? I am on naproxen for joint pain and Clonidine for hot flushes, there are other meds out there that are useful in combating the side effects. Glad you are there to supprt her, it will be a huge comfort to her.

  • Hi 

    live just been prescribed Tamoxifen,there are so many different brands so maybe she could try another brand like Nolvadex or Soltamax or a chat with your Chemist maybe help to give you a purer one without fillers? I think it’s trial and see which one suits the individual....

    You are great at being so supportive for her!! 

    xxx