Tamoxifin

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I hope someone can help me. I had a lumpectomy for a 1mm invasive breast cancer. I also had a sentinal node biopsy. They found nothing and they tell me maybe it was all gotten in the core biopsy done on me. My nodes were negative. I was told I did not need chemo OR radiation. The oncologist would like me to take tamoxifin however...I don't like the side effects I am reading about. I am estrogen+...I am 40 years old and VERY scared.

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  • Gabrielledr
    Gabrielledr Member Posts: 25
    edited August 2010

    Hello Kcaplicki...I was diagnosed with DCIS...noninvasive breast cancer...biopsy...right mastectomy...breast reconstruction... three lymph node removed...negative....pathology report...cancer gone...doctor says I probably want have to have chemo nor radiation...maybe tamoxifin...oncologist appointment tuesday, 17 Aug. hang in there...also nervous about the side effect...we are going to make it...didn't get this far without FAITH.

  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited August 2010

    just to let you both know-----tamoxifen is doable---it does have the risk of some serious SEs, but those are very rare, less than 1% (blood clots and endometrial cancer)--hot flashes are the most common SE----it's a good idea to have a yearly transvaginal US to monitor both the uterine lining and the ovaries, and a baby aspirin daily (81 mg) if OK with your own physician. No chemo or rads needed---now that's good news!

    Anne

  • gfbaker
    gfbaker Member Posts: 173
    edited August 2010

    I've been on tamox for 1.5 years (I am also 40) and really have no side effects. Most women complain about hot flashes, and some bone pain, but part of that might be due to age, hormonal status (did your ovaries shut down from chemo). I think the benefits far outweigh the side effects for most women. And congrats on no chemo or rads!

  • lynn1575
    lynn1575 Member Posts: 13
    edited August 2010

    I've been on Tamoxifen for 6 months. I do take an 81mg aspirin to help prevent blood clots, etc.  I have had no other side effects. I had a hysterectomy and ovaries removed when I had my lumpectomy. I was having hot flashes anyway and they're not any worse on the Tamoxifen.  It's also very inexpensive compared to the aromatase inhibitors.

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