tomoxifen

should one be taking tomoxifen while taking radiation?

[lhughes]

I started tamoxifen during radiation.  I think it depends on the doc, the patient, and the timing of visits.  In my instance, changed onc's and the second onc would have started me on tamoxifen sooner, but didn't see me until mid-radiation.

[SueYoung55]

My oncologist wanted me on tamoxifen during radiation but I was so "hot" during radiation that I couldn't have withstood hot flashes on top of radiation. Radiation caused me to get "heat pricks" that were painful and pretty much constant if I got warm. Everyone I worked with wore sweaters so I could crank the air conditioning to try and stay comfortable. They were very kind to me.    :)
So I waited on the tamoxifen with her permission and started mine Oct 1st.
Best of luck!

[r11]

Thanks for your response. could nausea be happening because of tamoxifen?

[lhughes]

Nausea?  Absolutely, especially the first couple of months getting your body adjusted.  Also mood swings, hot flashes, being hot all the time (it's 20 degrees outside and I'm only in a light weight sweater - no coat, didn't even pull mine out last year).... joint pain for some, acne, weigth gain or loss.... you name it....

Good news, MOST of the bad stuff should settle down in a few months.  If not, discuss what's not setting down with your doc.  There are other drugs depending on your menopausal status.