Tamoxifen

[Bloo]

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2002.  I had a lumpectomy, my nodes removed, chemo, radio, hysterectomy then went on to tamoxifen.  I finished with the tamoxifen in dec 2007 and started femara.  Since taking the femara i have experienced vicious pain on my right side near my ribs which lasts for up to 8 hours after i eat anything rich or fatty.  I am due scans on the 19th March to check for gallstones, as all the symptoms seem to indicate this.  My question is has anyone else developed gallstones from taking tamoxifen and if so what method of treatment did you use.  I have heard of a detox of apple juice then epsom salts and olive oil to remove them.  Has this been tried by anyone?  Is it safe?  I really dont want to have to have surgery again.  As you all will know, you can only take so much treatment.
Thank you.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Let us know what your doctor advises and also if you have any doubts.

Till you get an appointment with your doctor you could try some antinausea, antireflux medications and see if they help with your symptoms.

Keep us posted.

Regards.

[Bloo]

Thank you for answering my post. Yes I will discuss the detox with my GP as soon as we work out what the problem is.  I am learning to prejudge what triggers my pain attacks to limit them, though sometimes I get an attack, like last night, after eating something that had not provoked an attack in the past.  I think i will start a blog here to record everything.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Gall stones have been linked to Tamoxifen in some subsets of breast cancer patients. The symptoms that you provide do indicate a gall bladder pathology. The treatment for gall stones depends on the symptoms and the patients profile. There are various options available and surgery is not the only option. On the other hand you should consult your doctor and find out whether the detox method you mentioned has been proven to be effective and safe before you try it. Your doctor would be able to guide you with the modality best suited for your profile.

Please let us know if you have any queries. Also keep us posted on your health.

Good luck.