tamoxifin

Hi, I am scheduled to have a lumpectomy the 17th of October.After the surgery,I will have radiation therapy and then Tamoxifen.I read that this anti cancer medicine can give me several side effects including Urticaria (Hives)My worry is that, ( I've had hives  for almost nine years a few years back and Doctors never knew from what) by taking Tamoxifen could start again my hives.I used to have my eyes,throat and lips swell so dangerously to the point to have an injection administered immediately upon arriving to the emergency at the hospital, or to my doctor.Can anyone please tell me if Tamoxifen gave them hives? What alternative will I have if indeed Tamoxifen will give me hives? I am also very allergic to aspirin and anti inflammatory. Your suggestions and advices will be greatly appreciated.Thank you

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
It will be hard to predict whether you will have an allergic reaction to tamoxifen or not.  I’ve had many patients on tamoxifen, so far none of them had any allergic reaction to its use.
If you are already postmenopausal, an alternative to tamoxifen is an aromatase inhibitor.  Again, it will be hard to predict whether you will have an allergic reaction to this type of drug.  
Have you been seen by an allergologist?  I would suggest consult with one.  You oncologist can also work closely with your allergologist when you are being given your medicines.
Take care.    

[zouzi]

Thank you Doctor for your good advice.I will definitely follow what you suggested.God Bless you.