Can you go back to tamoxifen?

Egads007

Hi all!

I’m up for the switch over to an AL in December after completing 5 years on tamoxifen. During a quick discussion with my NP at the last appointment she emphatically stated that once the switch is made you cannot go back to tamoxifen if the AL becomes intolerable. I didn’t even question it (kicking myself now for not doing so) but am left wondering why. I can’t find any info to answer this. Any input would be appreciated! Cheers :

farmerlucy

You can absolutely go back. I did. So did many others.

MelissaDallas

It isn't like the AI flipped some super secret switch that can't be unflipped. One may be more effective than the other, but the most effective of the two is the one you can tolerate and take and not quit

Egads007

Farmerlucy and MelissaDallas thank you both for answering. It’s good to know that the switch is something that does happen. As MelissaDallas said about a secret magic switch, I didn’t think that ALs could cause detrimental damage if followed by tamoxifen, very nice to have it confirmed. Looks like I have to get my ducks in a row information wise before December. Thanks again ladies, much appreciated!

KleeKai

Hi Egads007- I failed arimidex (caused worsening of joint pain), letrozole (migraines and headaches) and now aromasin (constant headaches).  I am back on tamoxifen.  This was a choice.  I could have opted for increased observation and exams but thought it best to go back on tamoxifen.  Also, long ago when my mother was first diagnosed with breast cancer at age 71, she was on tamoxifen for 5 years.  So yes, you can go back on it, and it can be used in women in menopause.

Egads007

Thanks kleeKai! More confirmation of what I had thought...guess I’m just going to have to convince my NP of this come December:)

Falconer

Egads007, I was on OFS and an AI for a year. At my first appt with my 2nd MO (the first left town a few months into my treatment) he told me that if I hate the AI I could switch. His sister had been on an AI and was miserable so switched to Tam and was doing better. Like I said I lasted a year; now on Tamoxifen and doing fine.