Starting Tamoxifen, any baseline testing or suppliments?

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Alex276
Alex276 Member Posts: 35
edited July 2016 in Hormonal Therapy - Before, During, and After

I started Tamoxifen last week and thankfully I haven't had any side effects yet. I called my Gyn to see if there is any baseline testing they would want to do to monitor potential side effects. The nurse was so confused by why I would be calling and asking that. Am I just being overly concerned or did anyone have any baseline testing done?

Also, I don't take any daily supplements. I have always been a person who does not like to take meds or pills unless I absolutely have to. Do you have any suggestions of basic supplements or vitamins to take? I do take Lexapro to deal with severe depression after my mastectomy.

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  • Lisey
    Lisey Member Posts: 1,053
    edited July 2016

    Alex, jump over to the Tamoxifen Train or Bottle of Tamoxifen to join the ladies there...

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  • labelle
    labelle Member Posts: 721
    edited July 2016

    I consulted with my gyno and due to Tamoxifen use and my perimenopausal status she wanted a baseline transvaginal ultrasound done within weeks of me starting Tamoxifen and every 6 months there after. My understanding is that if you are premenopausal the risk of endometrial cancer due to Tamoxifen use is very, very low. When you are peri/post menopausal you are at the more risk. I would suggest making an appointment to consult with your gyno to see if you should be followed more closely while on Tamoxifen. Just tell the nurse you want an appointment.

    I take tons of supplements by choice, but my OC recommended only a few to go with the Tamoxifen: low dose aspirin (because Tamoxifen does raise the risk of blood clots), vitamin D, and magnesium.

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  • snorkeler
    snorkeler Member Posts: 145
    edited July 2016

    Tamoxifen can reduce bone density in premenopausal women, so my onc ordered a baseline DEXA scan when I started taking it. Also my first blood tests showed low vitamin D, so I'm taking that as well.

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  • dtad
    dtad Member Posts: 2,323
    edited July 2016

    Alex...yes I think you should baseline tests done as indicated in the above posts. The MO should order them. Just another example of how we need to be our own advocates. Good luck.

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