Amother Tamoxifen question

I love this sight- you have been very helpful to me - I just started taking Tamoxifen due to Breast disease (ADH )and strong family history of breast cancer-I am also on Thyroid hormone supplement due to hypothyroidism- I am wondering if the Tamoxifen would or could affect my thyroid regulation as is hormone related-I feel more tired than usual and am way more constipated than usual- which is attribuatable to the hypothyroidism- just dont want to seem like an alarmist and rush to call my Internist- any info would be appreciated- thanx again!

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Pam, It is possible that Tamoxifen could be contributing to your symptoms.  Constipation is an uncommon side effect of tamoxifen but it has been reported.  As to a Tamoxifen - thyroid connection, hypothyroidism is not reported as a direct side effect of Tamoxifen but it is possible that there could be some effect.  You should keep your Internist informed of changes so they can assess and advise you, they may want to recheck levels to see if any adjustment in your thyroid medication is in order.

[Pam`]

thank you again so much ! And I have had the hypothyroidism for years now - that in and of itself was not dur to the tamoxifen- I just thought the tamoxifen could be triggering some additional thyroid related issues-again, your site is awesome !

[Mel273]

I remember your post from several months ago as we were in a similar situation.  I too started on tamoxifen, I had one more very stressful scare in April.  The only side effect I have been having is lightheadedness a few days a month and really low BP then.  I'm not sure if its the tamoxifen though, I'm trying to avoid going back to the DR.  Have you tried Benefiber for the constipation?

[Pam`]

I have tried the benefiber- it does work- it's just a pain to have to take anything ! And my BP seems to be higher certain times of the month ! Again, I am not sure if the Tamoxifen has anything to do with my thyroid so I will call my Internist and check it out- hope all goes well with you and no more scares!