I finished radiotherapy 2 weeks ago and have been feeling very sluggish and lethargic. I know the fatigue can last between 6-8 weeks but I wondered if the Tamoxifen (which I've been taking for just over 2 months) could be making things worse? I've been taking it in the morning but wondered if taking it at night would make any difference?
Dear HeatherLassie
Thanks for getting in touch with the Macmillan Support line through our Ask A Nurse platform. I’m Linda, one of the nurses from our support line.
Fatigue can be one of the more frustrating side effects to deal with, unfortunately. And as you have just finished radiotherapy two weeks ago you might find that the side effects are at their highest peak just now.
Recovery from fatigue can be gradual and some people tell us they feel like they are playing a game of snakes and ladders with their energy levels to begin with. This is quite normal.
We regularly speak with people who tell us that the time they take tamoxifen at can affect their energy levels, though this tends to be anecdotal rather than evidence based. As a result, some will change the time of day that they take it at to see if this helps.
It is good to keep an eye on the name of manufacturer that your pharmacy is dispensing too, as some people find the changing brands frequently can also have an impact on side effects.
If you have a clinical nurse specialist it might be helpful to speak with them to let them know how you are feeling just now, just to rule out there are no other causes adding to your burden.
In addition, we do have course that people can join to help navigate the effects of treatment and looking to the future. If you would be interested in this, you can find out more here.
Please take care and if we can help further, we’d be happy to hear from you
Linda, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
Remember you can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or by email.
Ref: LM/KS
