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Taking vitamin supplements whilst on Tamoxifen

Taf1971
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I started taking Tamoxifen in June last year and am recovering from chemo, mastectomy and radiotherapy. I've been trying very hard to eat healthily and am regualrly exercising, which is helping with the side effects, but would like to know what people's views are on taking vitamins too. 

I've heard various conflicting reports, so I'm not sure if there's much benefit. I also do not want to take anything that may have any detramental effect on my medication. A breast care nurse didn't think there was any issue aroujnd this, but I'm still not sure. 

One of the things I'm considering is taking Zinc supplements - my sister had alopecia as a teeneager and it really helped her when her hair started growing back (and still does if she ever has a setback). My hair is slowly coming back after chemo, but if I could help it along, it would be good.

  • Hi Taf and welcome to the Cancer Chat community.

    It's good you've spoken about this with your BCN but as you're still feeling a tad uncertain do be sure to talk through your concerns with your doctor.

    Hopefully some of our members will share their experiences and advice with you soon but if you'd like to get our cancer nurses's thoughts on this you can contact them on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline

    Hi Taf.  Did you ever find out if taking Zinc has any detremental effect on Tamoxifen?

    I finished chemo December 2020 but my hair regrowth is terribly slow, I barely have an inch all over and it is very distressing as I want to get back to looking like the old me again.

    I have bought special shampoos and changed my diet but nothing seems to be happening.

    I have considered the zinc supplement but like you am worried if it is bad to take more than my body needs or if it clashes with Tamoxifen.

    Could you let me know your decision please.

    Thanks

  • Offline in reply to rcipussycat

    Hi,

     

    I've just googled zinc and tamoxifen and I've found an article from 2020 that shows that zinc protects the liver from tamoxifen and should be considered as an along side therapy for women in tamoxifen.  Hope this helps.xx

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