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After Tamoxifen

Artist J
  • 1 reply
  • 40 subscribers
  • 353 views

Good afternoon

in 2014 I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. I have had a mastectomy chemotherapy and radiotherapy and have been on tamoxifen for the last 9 years almost. I will be taking it for another 12 months.

im just a bit concerned what happens after this? It’s something that has been on my mind a lot recently. Can I continue on tamoxifen after 10 years? Is there an alternative preventative I can use? I’m just worried if everything stops the cancer may return?

is this normal? Sorry if it’s a stupid question. 
kind regards

  • Hi Artist J,

    Thank you for contacting Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is David, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    Firstly, there is no stupid questions. If you have questions or concerns, you must talk to someone and seek answers. Your GP may be a good place to start.

    People take Tamoxifen for different lengths of time according to their individual situation. For example, people being treated for primary breast cancer will usually take tamoxifen between 5 and 10 years.

    Scientific research has shown that 10 years is the optimal length of this treatment and there is no benefit of taking it any longer than that.

    However, people who take tamoxifen for locally advanced breast cancer or for secondary breast cancer usually continue to take tamoxifen for as long as it keeps the cancer under control.

    Your menopausal status is also a factor in length of time on tamoxifen.

    It is only natural that people worry about cancer coming back.  Understanding your uncertainty after cancer treatment is key to coping better.

    Sometimes people find strength in talking to others who may be in a similar situation. Our Life After Cancer Forum may be a good place to start.

    Alternatively, Breast Cancer Now also have good information and support available for people looking at life after cancer.

    If there is anything else we can help you with please feel free to get back in touch

     

    Best wishes

    David, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

     

    Ref/**

    DT/DK

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