Tamoxifen instead of Letrozole?

Hi Flowerhappy

I took tamoxifen for two years between 2010-2012 and felt depressed, that's the only side-effect that stands out and why I only took it for 2 instead of 5 years. I would voice your concerns. From experience, everyone reacts differently to everything and you might tolerate it quite well, it's hard to know. 

Hi

I have been on Tamoxifen for just over three years now, at first it was hard to distinguish between effects from chemo - like you I have not had a period since before chemo started- and have had no issues apart from the hot flushes , but as I had those during chemo I can’t say they were a result of the Tamoxifen. I tried many different things for the flushes , the best being setraline which helped enormously. I came off the Tamoxifen for 3 months to have reconstructive surgery last year , and felt no different at all, back on it now and I am fine , no need for anything else to help. I have known many women over the years who have had breast cancer and only one of those found the side effects not tolerable. Side effects are not inevitable , but just keep an eye on what is happening with your body but also bear in mind it could simply be menopause symptoms, of which there are still several options for help. 

I know these forums are fantastic for help , but sometimes these drugs seem to be demonised as if we are being given them to prolong our suffering , when in fact they are helping to keep us cancer free as long as possible, so don’t try  overthink it , just be aware. 

Best wishes 

Jo

Thanks, I guess I just need to get on with it and see what happens... 

You're right I'm totally overthinking it!! Thanks for your positive reply xxx

Hi Flowerhappy 

If it's any consolation, I'm constantly anxious about the treatment and anything new, am super wary. I doubt you're overthinking it, more like weighing it up against your best interests. I can't stand letrozole and have loads for some reason.

Haha thanks but I would need the Zolodex injections too, which is why I can't have it at the moment. Thanks though!!! Kind thought xxxxxxxxx

This time is really crucial and everybody is getting affected due to current pandemic especial patients who are on any kind of treatment. I hope this medicine can work well for you. You should consult with your doctor regarding the possible side effects of Tamoxifen.

Possible side effects may include Hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, nausea or vomiting or weight gain. Your doctor can give you the best consultation to deal with the side effects and he can suggest some medication as well. Take care.

Best of luck!

Jowoomot is absolutely right / the treatment is there to help.

I am on Year 6 of taking Tamoxifen and although I would like to blame it for my weight gain ( especially around midriff) and teary at any slightly emotional story or action, it probably is a combination of Eating too much of the wrong foods and as I am 48 now, menaupasal. Didn’t affect my libido.

I’ve thought about taking a break from Tamoxifen to see if there’s a difference but am too risk averse!

Has anyone stopped taking it and seen a difference?