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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
medication
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-JS, Jun 20, 2001 12:00AM
Dear chis, Many breast cancers have been found to be estrogen receptor positive, meaning estrogen may in some way be contributing to their growth. One way of treating breast cancer or preventing it from returning is to decrease the estrogen levels in the body. The purpose of medications like Tamoxifen and Zoladex are to decrease the amount of estrogen in the body. This decrease in the estrogen could very well be what is causing your side effects.
While on these medications some suggestions for relief of symptoms are Vitamin E 800IU daily, Vitamin B6 200mg daily or Peridin-C tablets 3 times a day. These are over the counter agents that may be helpful, but before using any supplements check with your doctor to make sure there is no problem with taking these in your particular situation. The goal of these supplements is not to eliminate hot flashes, but to lessen their intensity and frequency. If these are not effective you can discuss with your doctor if a prescription medication might be helpful and appropriate.
While on these medications some suggestions for relief of symptoms are Vitamin E 800IU daily, Vitamin B6 200mg daily or Peridin-C tablets 3 times a day. These are over the counter agents that may be helpful, but before using any supplements check with your doctor to make sure there is no problem with taking these in your particular situation. The goal of these supplements is not to eliminate hot flashes, but to lessen their intensity and frequency. If these are not effective you can discuss with your doctor if a prescription medication might be helpful and appropriate.
