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Coming off Tamo after 10yrs - tapering dose down?

MacHamster
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Hi

I'm due to stop taking Tamo early next year and wondered if I should try slowly reducing the dose instead of stopping dead? I'm approx 60yo.

I've had a look around and the current wisdom is to just stop, which looks like it can cause side effects, but there are no clinical trials/research on slowly lowering or tapering the dose down.

There is some research on lower doses (1/2.2/5/10mg) for treatment purposes, which report less adverse side effects although the sample sizes for the studies aren't that large.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40265-024-02010-x

I haven't discussed it with the gp yet because I suspect they will stick with the "just stop" party line, and getting an appointment is so much harder than it should be. 

Thanks in advance for any advice x

  • Hello MacHamster,

    Thanks for contacting us. I’m Gail, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    It sounds like you are preparing for stopping tamoxifen treatment next year and want to prevent potential side effects. The current advice is to stop taking tamoxifen completely after the recommended time.  It is difficult to predict what side effects, if any, you may experience after stopping tamoxifen but looking after your general wellbeing is beneficial. Also, it is not unusual to feel anxious about stopping treatment.

    As this is currently on your mind, you may want to consider talking through your concerns with your GP soon. It gives you plenty of time to arrange an appointment and to decide who you would prefer to speak with, if you have a preference. You can discuss your worries and explore the support available to you, should you develop side effects.

    Please get back in touch if you need any further information.

    Best Wishes,

    Gail

    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: GH/HK

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