Tamoxifen side effects

[Mamaprima]

I read that tamoxifen causes weight gain, swelling.  My Dr. insists it doesn't.  I've gained 35 lbs. since I began chemo a year and a half ago, after bilateral mastectomy with lymph removal.  I have been on tamoxifen for almost a year now and still have hot flashes, vaginal dryness and itching, leg pain and swelling.  I also take synthroid (after treatment of graves disease years ago).  My OB/GYN suggested an antidepressant for the hot flashes and vaginal dryness, but I've since heard that it can reduce the effects of Tamoxifen.  Is there anything I can do about the weight/swelling and/or the hot flashes.  Now, I can't even handle mild exercise for more than fifteen minutes without shortness of breath and sweating profusely.  I'm tempted to stop taking the Tamoxifen.

[bluebutterfly2222]

In regard to  hot flashes, there are several antidepressants that can help. As you indicated, it is important to select one that will not interefere with the effectiveness of tamoxifen. (See my thread "Tamoxifen Interactions," 10/24/09, for more information about this.) Accupuncture and exercise have also been found to reduce hot flashes. Vaginal dryness can be improved oil-based moisturizers such as Replens or K-Y Liquibeads. Other  remedies with which some women report good results include olive or coconut oil, Vitamin E, Sylk (made from kiwi vine extract), aloe vera, or Corn Huskers Lotion.

It would be best to stay on Tamoxifen, if you possibly can, because it has a good record of reducing the rate of relapse of the original cnacer as well as reducing the risk of developing a new estrogen receptor positive breast cancer.

Best wishes...

[japdip]

If you go to  chemocare.com   you can read all the side effects of Tamoxifen. What you mention are all listed there. The weight gain no doubt is due to fluid retention which is one of the side effects. You might discuss changing drugs with your Oncologist as there are others available but keep in mind that they all have similar side effecfts even though you mjight not experience them to the same degree.  Regards .....