Me and my twin sister recently stopped taking Tamoxifen just shy of our 5 years. We experienced hair loss but immediate clarity so that's a plus. We still have a few symptoms to overcome and our oncologists were ABSOLUTELY against us getting off. We feel better though.
I had anxiety most of my life, but after taking tamoxifen it became so severe that I didn’t want to live anymore. I now take Zoloft which has helped immensely but also added to my weight gain. I also have severe joint pain.
You are very informative Dr Amy. I love your videos & advice. I am on 10 mg of Tamoxifen and have minimal side effects that do not affect my quality of life thus far and it will be one year in May 🙏 I am greatful to Tamoxifen- I call it my vitamin T.
I went off tamoxifen early and my breast cancer came right back. I had no idea that was possible but it was suppressing the cells that had broken away unknowingly. Now I have stage 4. If you don’t have bad side effects, I would stay on it!
Natasha, so sorry to hear about your diagnosis! Went to your lovely channel and saw the prognosis looks good though ❤. Would you mind sharing what your initial diagnosis was, and for how long you took tamox? Big hug and healing vibrations from a breastie sis🎉ter
@@laikavideosthank you! I told my whole story on a recent video. The first update was about a month ago. Basically, it was DCIS stage 1. Did lumpectomy, radiation and then tamoxifen for over 4 years. Stopped early because I thought I could and then was diagnosed shortly after with stage 4 because it was in my right pleura after being sick and getting pleural effusion. I’m back on medication and actually feel amazing because I’ve started a keto diet. ❤
Dr.Amy, you are heaven-sent! Really among the few, if not the only one, talking about these issues surrounding cancer-survivors. So grateful for your work! May I just also mention a little thing? The way this video is edited seems a bit more in the style of the current youth, who may have a pretty damaged attention span and need that style to keep engaged. A lot, if not most, of your viewers are women in their middle-age and above, so it´d be very kind if you could keep the videos without the incessant "quick zoom in-zoom out". I´m a fairly young person, but still had to put the screen down and just listen to your golden advice. It was almost disturbing to the eyes to watch the quick style of editing. I hope it´s okay to give that constructive criticism, as you can see below...many have pointed out having the same issue. God bless you dr! Thank you so much for your efforts! 💐
Hi- 64 years old. Had Stage 2 with lymph node involvement 3 years ago. Had a large lumpectomy, chemo and 33 rounds of radiation. Tried 2 aromatase inhibitors with severe joint pain. Was difficult to work. Now on tamoxifen for 3 years, easier on me overall. Ladies, educate yourself on the science and statistical reoccurrence percentages with and without hormone blockers. The data is compelling that you should try to stay on them. Per Amy, exercise is key. Yes I have gained 14 lbs but I am now working out 4 days a week and have lots more energy. Take green tea supplements; fish oil, vitamin D, magnesium glycinate and berberine. I also started over the counter Amberen for menopause related symptoms and it seems to help. Get an Aleimai cooling blanket for hot flashes. But stay on your meds. My friend did not and her stage 1 cancer spread to bone and lung 9 years later. Best of luck!
What about women who want to stay on them but just cannot as they are so poorly like myself I’ve tried 2 now and had terrible migraine it got so bad they were there nearly all the time . I’m 49 second time cancer patient breast and could not even walk down stairs for awful bone pain in my knees my mood was sooo low no energy … I’m so happy for the women who can manage them but don’t want people to judge us who’s bodies cannot I have no quality of life on these awful drugs 😢thank you for sharing sending ❤to everyone who has cancer horrible 😢
@@clairebeever3038do what is best for you ! Yes the risk is scary but let’s be honest we all need a decent quality of life !! It is your body and life - you do what you must ❤
@@clairebeever3038 Bless your heart, pink sister. I too have suffered, trying to take every single one of the AI drugs, I'm allergic and end up in anaphylaxis every time, take meds to counteract the least of these, which happens to be Letrozole. Sigh, I have ZERO quality of life, zero energy, I've become one with the couch, my husband does everything including taking care of our youngest child, our 9yo daughter......I just couldn't do this any longer!! It took 3 years, to get through the surgeries for the mastectomy and then chemotherapy, of my IDC Diagnosis in September 2019. I've been taking one kind or another of the AIs and up until 3 days ago had lastly taken Letrozole. I don't want to end up with breast cancer again, especially breast cancer that's lodging somewhere besides my remaining breast, but I can't do this anymore!!! 😭 I don't call this, whatever THIS IS, "living". 🤕🥺 I hope this finds you continuing to do well and I pray for all of us who've been touched by breast cancer. 🙏🏼💕
@sacredcaston6030 I've heard some people react well to hormone therapy and don't really experience any particularly bothersome side effects. I honestly wish you the best and hope you are one of those people🙏🏼 As far as hair thinning and vaginal dryness are concerned there are topical remedies that can bring relief, such as minoxidil (or even rosemary oil, which has been proven to be just as effective) and vaginal moisturizer with hyaluronic acid (Vagisil makes a good one)
@@sacredcaston6030 I have no issue with my hair. I have a head full of it. No vaginal dryness. As far as my weight, I even lost about 20 pounds since last year. The only side effect I have is hot flashes some nights.
@@sacredcaston6030I have been on for 3 years. My hair is normal. But the JOINT PAIN. Holy Moses. I've been tested for ms, lupus, mris, rheumatologist, X-rays, injections in spine, hips, elbows, si joints, foot surgery. The pain has been unbearable. 24/7. I take gabepentin, cymbalta, celbrex for pain and joint swelling. Nothing helps. I just found out like that's the sole reason for ALL of my pain. I am 5 days tamoxifen free. My quality of life sucks. I've gained 60 lbs from not being able to move or bend. I didn't think I had any side effects. This whole time. I was soooo wrong. I am miserable. Constant pain is no life for me.
@@desertrose294I would like to point out that these hair treatments are also not without risk. I am unable to use them because of the effects they have on my blood pressure. As to using hyaluronic lubricants, I tried them and they didn’t work for me. I’m 5 years post breast cancer and now in menopause at age 52. Dealing with this is different for each person.
From what I hear, hormone treatment is horrible. The side effects are appalling, and doctors push this crap like its candy. Side effects include 10 years of joint pain so severe patients can't stay in one position for 20 minutes. I'm bipolar. The last thing I need is to be depressed for 10 years. I've even heard that the symptoms don't stop after you stop the meds, so it's risky to even try them. I'm 67 and have had 4 heart attacks. The chances of me living 10 more years were slim before I developed breast cancer. If I take this garbage for 10 years, I will be miserable for the rest of my life. That is hardly "treatment;" it's torture. As for counselors, I live in Vegas. "Healthcare" here sucks. I can't even see a shrink, just a nurse practitioner. He won't prescribe meds for anxiety stronger than an antihistamine because he says it will make me "senile." I have no one to talk to and no one to help me with anything at all. I don't need to be sick and depressed for 10 years so cancer MIGHT not recur.
it's definitely NOT like that for everyone. I'm 2-1/2 years in with only some joint and muscle pain. It's different for everyone, don't assume the worst.
If I was the same age as you I'd do the same. Tamoxifen increases risk of developing blood clots which is definitely unsafe for someone that had 4 heart attacks.
Hi there, could you share your lifestyle, please? Have you changed anything to prevent recurrence? I stopped tamoxifen one year ago due to severe side effects, however, recurrence is a fear I still couldn't get rid of and I know it's not good for my mental health 😢
I just started on tamoxifen and it’s so hard for me to know if I made the right decision. I don’t want to regret taking it but also don’t want to regret not taking it 😢
@@soulala4585same thoughts I dont want to regret taking it or not. . But I really decided not to take tamoxifine because I am not ready for the side effect. GOD bless Us all .I am praying for our complete healing with every decission we make.
After a miserable 15months first on anastrozole then on Tamoxifen, I said NO. No more. Every so-called "rare" side effect I had. If I stayed on it for 5+ years per protocol, I would have ended up in the wheelchair, bald, possibly with a uterine cancer or dead. No, I'll take my chances and enjoy life now while I still can without being in pain and miserable all the time.
Same here. One month on Letrazole and Amebaciclib was totally debilitating. I'm done. What must be will be. I'm happy and healthy and can get out of bed again. That's all that matters. My quality of life now. I've had 54 glorious years. ..
I aggree fully with the above comments . I was given two of these drugs and decided to give both up due to side effects . I am glad that there are other woman like myself .
I am on Tamoxifen for 2 months now, have gained zero weight, actually lost 10 pounds. My periods are shorter the bad side effects are fatigue and joint pain, I have 48 months to go to finish my tamoxifen treatment.
I cannot believe for 3 years we've been trying to figure out why I have so much pain post bc. I can't bend my hips at all. It's all I can do to sit, lay, stand, walk. Running is out of the question. Even walking fast. Up hill, not happening. I wish I would've known it was all from tamoxifen. I can't bend my elbows. Fingers. I just found this out so I stopped way early. Day 5 tamoxifen free. Never again. I'll take my chances w cancer.
You forgot to mention blood clots from Tamoxifen. I told my oncologist that I had a family history of blood clots, and after much arguing I refused to take Tamoxifen. I got a very bad case of covid and developed an acute pulmonary embolism in my left lung that almost killed me. The pulmonary doctor in the hospital said if I was on Tamoxifen I would have surely not survived the covid.
I told my oncologist the same, and he told me to not worry about it, that doesn't happen to anyone. Next time I saw him I was in a wheelchair because of a devastating stroke.
No, I’ve had surgery, and radiation, Arimidex became way too debilitating, tamoxifen caused a clot, anticoagulant was horrendous, my radiation oncologist said there’s no guarantee with these drugs to stop recurrence, they don’t kill cancer cells
I had an adverse side effects for taking tamoxifen. Regular severe leg cramps, daily head ache and depression. So I decided to stop after two months and took the chance. After more than 14 years the cancer came back so this time I am hoping that I will not experience these horrible side effects.
i've gained 20lbs since being on tamoxifen ~6 months. i thought tamoxifen can actually increase estrogen in certain parts of the body. yes it decreases in the breast, bones, brain etc. but tamoxifen's own literature says it can increase circulating estrogen 6-fold. is the weight gain from low or high estrogen?!
I had breast cancer in 2018, aged 59 had a small tumour removed then radiotherapy …I tried tamoxifen for two months but joint pain was severe so I stopped taking it..also tried letrozole and had same side effects. As of 2023 I was diagnosed after annual mammogram with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in my lower back, breast, lymph node, sternum, hip and left femur. Devastated and now think if only I’d kept taking it I may have had a better outcome…..please be careful of the choices ahead.
I am interested in what kind of breast cancer you had. I am SO sorry that happened and radiation did not kill all of the cancer cells I gather. You mention you had a mammogram so do you have both breasts? I had a lumpectomy 3 months ago and more small cancer cells were found in the tissue they took out. So just finished a double mastectomy and start 30 rounds of radiation this coming week. I am 67 and very on the fence about taking any of the estrogen blockers My onco test scores were 2 qnd 7 so very low. Did not need chemo thankfully. Thnx for any further info you might share.
I am so very sorry for your situation. I firmly believe if there were more videos from people who have taken hormone blockers providing information about how to cope with the side effects that fewer people would stop taking them. I really HATE videos like thus one, because they are very one sided. Prayers for you, dear.
I had a stage 4 breast cancer. Tamoxifen and zolladex didn't help me actually. I have been in strict keto diet and fasting with some radiation. Now I am cancer free 🙏.
I was diagnosed with HER2+ went through surgery and radiotherapy commenced tamoxifen but ceased after 3 months due to symptoms and mind set 12 yrs since diagnosed nil issues
Why is there no information about Tamoxifen withdrawal ? All I’ve been able to find is a couple UK cancer websites with forums from ladies who say it exists …My 10 years of Tamoxifen ended last April…had hardly any side effects the whole time…is it possible to have the side effects after stopping, or could it be natural menopause setting in, or both? A medication this strong has got to have withdrawal effects ..I’m just looking for answers
Start it!!! I was diagnosed with Stage 3 (high grade and all the bad stuff), 7 years ago. Anastrozole does have some side effects. For me, it’s been pretty mild. I know there’s no guarantee - BUT - knowing I have some protection against this disease that CAN come back…is enough for me to keep swallowing this tiny pill - every - single - day.
I agree with Kay, Gina. Please at least start it and see how it goes. My side effects have been mild as well. It gives me some sense of control (and confidence) over this tough situation.
Every single one of these side effects. It sucks but I feel I have no choice to stay on tamoxifen unless I want cancer again. I’m also on leuproid shots, it’s a double whammy.
I just had surgery I am 77 no lymph node involvement onco score of 30 won't do chemo or radiation say I can't handle it. They say I have a 50 percent chance of spread in 5 years gave me anastrozle omg I feel horrible I might stop it I also need another opinion
I’m on Letrozole and Lupron and have on and off joint pain. The worst for me is the weight gain and the increased belly fat. I eat mostly plant based and exercise but the number on the scales are not moving down. It’s frustrating when part of your recovery is to lose weight but your given medication that makes you gain it.
Hi! I’m supposed to start Letrozole soon, as a soon as I miss my period (they are inducing medical menopause). Can I ask you how long did it take for the effects of Letrozole to start? Have you made any changes to your nutrition and exercise? Have your had bone loss? I’ve always exercised and been slim, but I’m worried that this medication will take a toll on me. I’m very worried about a likely bone loss. Thank you..
I fell in love with this lifesaving drug from the get go. Ovarian cancer has the poorest prognosis this drug changed that outcome. Had pts actually laughing in joy when they'd see me as a result of this therapy. They said they never thought they'd be cancer free after 2 relapses.
Thank you for this video, Doctor. By personal choice, I didn't want to take Tamoxifen after my breast cancer operation and radiotherapy. I had an unpleasant feeling about taking it. I had to face the oncologist's fear. I've been in remission for 2 years now, thank goodness! I radically changed my lifestyle and chose cruciferous supplements as a preventive measure, which I take every day.
Hi Gai-ris: I chose life style changes exercise, acupuncture, supplements include ng cruciferous veg extracts , high vitc. So far 2 years reoccurence. My oncologist to his credit is thrilled I am doing well. Oh forgot the DIM to help withestrogen metabolism
@@lindajones4849 GREAT! I was also taking DIM+ until I discovered that it contained a carcinogenic substance: titanium dioxide (E171). Which brand do you use? Thanks for your help!
I have been on Tamoxifen for 6 months and have had an exacerbation of my autoimmune disease Lichen Sclerosis, Lichen planus, 2 vaginal yeast infections, now oral thrush from dry mouth- Nystatin eliminated thrush but not my tongue and and mouth tissue are so sore… food is difficult to eat… told my oncologist I need to stop… have an appointment to discuss any alternatives…drinking plenty of water , exercising more than before my mastectomy… just can’t stand these side effects that also include hot flashes, irritability and leg cramps🙄.Also considering plant based diet with certain supplements by a breast cancer physician. Thank you for all this great information 🙏🏻🌹
A whole lot of negative stuff here. So who has experienced a positive outcome? I'm preparing to have bilateral mastectomy with a HER2 neu positive diagnosis. Taxol and herxeptin will be the chemo of choice for me, then Tamoxifen. I've been a very active person and an athlete all my life. At 60, I was a spin biker until knee replacement. Now at 62, I'm still most active but can't spin with new knee😢. Anywho, any one out there who is active on Tamoxifen and better reviews.??
I was wondering the same exact thing. I just went through bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction 11 days ago. Stage 1A, no lymphnode involvement. HER2 negative. Ki-6795% Progesterone 90%. I feel amazing right now and reading the comments of everyone's experience is gloomy. It makes me scared. Like fitness, we just got to push through the pain.
@stephanieanderson7208 infusion #7 behind me, and I've felt great. Just minor side effects but go away in 1 day ( constipation, head sores, stomach cramps, headache). Good luck to you! You go bust this up!! A positive attitude goes a long way!!
Im taking DIM right now instead of Tamoxifen. I hope this works well enough to make a difference. Oncologist gave me a script for 10 mg to start but I really dont want to try it 😢
I was prescribed Anastrazole being 58 took it for a year and suffered stiff knee joints, once I read that the medicine's half life is 50 hours, I started taking it every 48 hours and I feel much better now. I gained weight but is more because of slow thyroid gland issue, my TSH level is higher than normal.
I’m going to talk to my dr about my symptoms - I’m on my 5th year of taking tamoxifen- the hot and cold flushes are getting unbearable and I also read it can affect your vocals which is interesting- does anyone else notice voice issues on tamoxifen?
I ran a weekly fever (101.4 to 102.6F). My usual body temperature is 97. I stopped taking estrogen blockers. The fevers stopped. My doctor believes the fever and blocker are unrelated. He wants me to resume. Thoughts?
Exercise helps but there are specific treatments for lymphedema .Ask your doc for referral to a physical therapist who is trained in lymphedema management. Good luck
Walking and deep breathing can help mild symptoms but u may need a referral to a physical therapist trained in lymphedema management. You may need a compression garment also.
I took Tamoxifen for ten years for my breast cancer. I was cancer free for twelve years. Now I have serous carcinoma in my uterus. Had a hysterectomy and am going through chemo now. You can't win.
Does this happen when you take anastrozole, or letriozole? I have them and take anastrozole. I also had uterine cancer so couldn't take tamoxifen. I have both DCIS and ALH. 2 excisions. Also what regular scan or mamagraphy/ultrasound is recommended to catch ALH? I had radiation
Mam My last pet ct scan showed there was no cancer on my body . I got breast cancer 13 years before and I racently taking denosomub ,Pelbociclib 100mg ,faslodex and zoladex.if I don’t hv any cancer now why am I taking all injections .I want to stop taking all injections as it has a lot of side effects pls Mam advise me
Ok, well great for you. But for many of us, that"crap" is saving our lives. And, btw..i know what I'm talking about..having dealt with( successfully ) my son's terminal rhabdomyosarcoma 28 years ago
My friend was prescribed Tamoxifen 20mg and is suffering from lymphodema but the doctor is not reducing the dose to 10mg, they just give the same dose to patients for prevention and treatment alike.
I'm not on Tamoxifen but I am 56 and every symptom you describe I have due to menopause, I am now just 9 months from my last period Everything hurts all the time
Tamoxifen would be my 4th & final attempt at hormone blockers. I had every side effect: severe joint & muscle pain, headaches, nausea, daily diarrhea, fatigue, mood changes, insomnia, hot flashes... you name it, I had them all. I refuse to take it. Enough already. My quality of life is more important. My oncologist is adamant for me to take these blockers for 10 years. I'm 72. Im active. I eat healthy. I exercise. So be it.
I help women who are in this exact same situation. I know it almost sounds too good to be true at this point but we can get rid of the side effects. I've done it for thousands of women
I didn't take any ERT after my hysterectomy & I was fine. I think the way to get extra estrogen out of your body is to eat less. Because if you lose weight that would take some estrogen out of your body.
I am refusing them to I am sick of medicines being shoved in my face. After I had radio active iodine done to my thyroid that's when it began with me having any Cancer. Before that my uterus was fine. Then so were my breasts I didn't have Cancer. Then when I was pressured into gaining weight. It makes me not want to listen to this kind of advice either. I wish you would please stop advertising about these hormones on my page.
@@mehvishaftab6687 honestly..... no. Chemo brain was way worse. I occasionaly forget things, feeling less bright than in my (pre-cancer) past. But it is not so bad as the chemo brain was. (On tamoxifen 8 months atm)
@@mehvishaftab6687 I guess it's individual... I did not have chemo but was feeling like I literally had no brain while on tamoxifen.. just not myself at all. stopped taking it after 5 months
Ok the tamoxifen made me have horrible joint pain. I already have degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis. I chose at 66 and 72 to not take it. I have tried two others that made my hair thin terribly. I have weight gain and awful insomnia. My dry mouth awful. I am never without a drink near. At my age 74 now I think I will just try to live my life. My oncologist ordered Letrozole for me yesterday. It is the last try. I am not sure I want to try it. At 74 how many years anyway.
Good luck to you. I went off tamoxifen after 2 years due to horrible mental side effects. I don’t look back. Sometimes I feel a little uneasy but I choose not to take it and the quality of my life is SO much better.
If you are on or have taken 20mg of Tamoxifen make sure you share with your eye care provider. I developed premature cataracts and two years later began dealing with retinopathy. Never heard of such a thing. After a year of going to the eye doctor I was recommended to Retinal Specialist. After thorough examination was diagnosed with tamoxifen related retinopathy. I am losing eyesight in left eye. Retinopathy appears to occur in as many as 12% of patients taking 20 mg tamoxifen a day for over 2 years. No one is talking about this side effects. I am experiencing a cloudy milky film in my left eye. Not sure Doctors are giving 20mg today.
I'm so sorry. 20 mg is the standard dose but my oncologist agreed to let me try 10 mg first but I still am not wanting to try it. I'm so sorry about your eyes.
Hi Dr. Amy. I took Tamoxifen for a period of 2 years... then changed x Anastrozol...and started with uterine bleeding. 15 days of heavy period, then the doctor made me an hysteroscopy...and now the period is lighter....but it doesen't stop yet. Can you tell us more about this side effect? Thank you very much. Greets from Argentina.
Am 64 and doctor want to give me PALBOCICLIB 75 mg for 1 year Could you tell me about this medication please .. it’s because of 1 breast pones Cancer for 1 year .. please I need you help
I was given a dose of 20 mgs. I break it down and take 5mgs as I read a thesis on the internet which stated 5mgs did the same job as 20 and without side effects.
last month I have uoltrasuond den raspa result endometrial scraping Biopsy Endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia I'm worried 😟 because my ovaries undergo surgery now
After all the hot flashes joint pain, dry skin loss of hair… Does anyone know when you stop taking it? Do you get yourself back or is this a permanent loss? I can hardly walk anymore.
Wow, this sounds terrible. Definitely doesn’t need to be like this. Email me if you want to chat more and we can fix this. dramy@cancerfreedomprogram.com
Why is this video so chopped up? Every sentence you finish, you cut in with a new video of you saying the next sentence. You delete the natural pause, of you catching your breath and your audience letting things sink it! It's dreadful, I can't bear to watch
Hi! I know some women who went through menopause. None of them had or are experiencing joint pain. I believe that it depends a lot on how “healthy” your body is and what you have inherited from your mum. My mum only had hot flashes for maybe 9 months and nothing else. My sister has been into menopause for about a year now. She has no side effects yet. A sister of a good friend also is experiencing no side effects. Everybody is different.
Thanks again Dr I just watched the first video and I am positive that we should keep talking Tamoxifen. Before the Oncologist gave Letrozole. I felt horrible then she changed to tamoxifen.
I would be much more inclined to trust what you are presenting if you outlined both pros and cons of this medication in a non-biased way. This feels like a sales pitch.
I am starting radiation in 10 days and do not want to take the estrogen blockers. It makes sense in a way but it just gives you all the symptoms of menopause which they used to treat with HRT and ended up causing cancer. Do you think its possible to do it with diet, supplements and exercise without the medication? They suggest the diet, exercise and supplements as a way to help stop it from coming back aka a preventive . I'm interested to know ifI there any studies on this,
I'm here looking for info for my lady she just finished radiation and was scheduled to start the drug to, I found beetroot, DIM, and other natural estrogen balancers that seem very effective stay up all night researching how to help her naturally.❤️
Wow thank you dr. I had put on weight alots I had took tomoxifen for 1 year and 1/2 now my dr. Said tell me I not need to take it but I decided to take it and my mood so bad not my self and I am 51 years old DCIs cancer 1 and I not need to do radio or cemo thank dr .
Hi Dr Amy. Ive been on Tamoxifen almost 10 years. Ive stopped as my brand seems to have stopped. I changed brands at the beginning and have managed by sticking to my brand . I am a fitness instructor. However fir the last 18 months ive had neck and joint pain. Worse since coming off tamoxifen. Any suggestions please? Ive had investigation. Nothing else found as yet. Thank goodness. Can this be linked to Tamoxifen?
Dr Amy I was diagnosed early breast cancer 2020. I am 66 opted for removal of my right breast. I was given Tamoxifen 20mg this is my 4th year taking Tamoxifen. My skin is looking like an old woman I get these hot flashes I can't sleep sometimes i get depressed. My question is after my surgery I was told the cancer was not aggressive. So there was no need for me to do chemotherapy thats why I was put on Tamoxifen which I was told to take for 5 years. I have put on weight. I want to stop. Please advise
I feel you! 44 just had a lumpectomy last week, path report showing IDC and situ I was told I may have to take moxy…. I’m not taking it either.. I will eat lettuce everyday before I take that pill.
They found IDC and IDC in situ in the same breast, cancer free in the breast. However, the cancer traveled to my lymph nodes 2/3. I have to do 6 months of Chemo by weekly for three months then weekly for three months, and 6 weeks of radiation.. I’m at peace! God has us in his hands. My 12 yr old nephew died of brain cancer in 2019. Never complained about anything! I think of all the children that are suffering and think if they can battle this, I’ll join forces with them. God bless you!!
I had ductile cancer. Did radiation and chemo. Brain fog was the worst . I thought I had lost most of my short term memory. But my therapist encouraged me to do the same word games and crossword puzzles I did anyway. Blessings to those going through it now.
Anyone on here doing 10 mgs of less of tamoxifen ? Curious if this is “allowed” and if so , are your side effects more manageable ? Asking because saw below that there is a trial for 5mg doses vs 20 mg
Jestem z polski . W grudniu przeszłam operacje mastektomie z uwagi na raka przedinwazyjnego In Situ. Miałam zalecony Tamoxifen 20 ale moja onkolog zmniejszyła mi dawkę do 10 ponieważ miałam przerost endometrium. Po zmniejszeniu dawki endometrium w normie . W dalszym ciągu mam uderzenia gorąca . Ból stawów miałam jeszcze przed diagnoza .
I dropped my dose to 10mg and the side effects DID lessen. I recently stopped taking it for a month and felt normal after about a week. Started it again, and after 3 days noticed foot pain. The rest of the side effects have not yet returned, but probably will! Been about 6 days now
I already have all the tamoxifen side effects for the last couple of years without taking tamoxifen. I started tamoxifen 4 days ago, so let's see what happens.
Drinking milk for your bones (osteoporosis) has actually shown to cause more problems. Taking calcium supplements isn’t the answer either. Eating food rich in calcium such as broccoli 🥦 does help the body absorb calcium.
That a decision I will never make for you. You now have more information about the drug - you are incredibly intelligent and can make the decision for yourself.
I have my appointment in a week's time with my oncologist to discuss my treatment. I am sure they will say that i will have to take tamoxifen, i am thinking of declining this treatment. Joint and muscle pain will cause me not to continue with my trade as a hairdresser. I love this information but i know that I will decide on the day of my appointment and what is best for me.
I don't blame you that's excactly what I will tell my doctor. I will not take that medication or anything like it. I will try to see if there are other ways that are more alternative.
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I had breast cancer 13 year's ago prescribed this never even took it. I'm doing fine so far.
@@dramycancerrecovery In my case , it is not breast problem but intestine. Can U advise or help ?
Me and my twin sister recently stopped taking Tamoxifen just shy of our 5 years. We experienced hair loss but immediate clarity so that's a plus. We still have a few symptoms to overcome and our oncologists were ABSOLUTELY against us getting off. We feel better though.
I had anxiety most of my life, but after taking tamoxifen it became so severe that I didn’t want to live anymore. I now take Zoloft which has helped immensely but also added to my weight gain. I also have severe joint pain.
I'm on bupropion and feel like it's not working as well. And I have been extremely irritable. I was the same on the 3 AI meds I took.
You are very informative Dr Amy. I love your videos & advice. I am on 10 mg of Tamoxifen and have minimal side effects that do not affect my quality of life thus far and it will be one year in May 🙏 I am greatful to Tamoxifen- I call it my vitamin T.
I went off tamoxifen early and my breast cancer came right back. I had no idea that was possible but it was suppressing the cells that had broken away unknowingly. Now I have stage 4. If you don’t have bad side effects, I would stay on it!
Natasha, so sorry to hear about your diagnosis! Went to your lovely channel and saw the prognosis looks good though ❤. Would you mind sharing what your initial diagnosis was, and for how long you took tamox? Big hug and healing vibrations from a breastie sis🎉ter
@@laikavideosthank you! I told my whole story on a recent video. The first update was about a month ago. Basically, it was DCIS stage 1. Did lumpectomy, radiation and then tamoxifen for over 4 years. Stopped early because I thought I could and then was diagnosed shortly after with stage 4 because it was in my right pleura after being sick and getting pleural effusion. I’m back on medication and actually feel amazing because I’ve started a keto diet. ❤
@@NatashaFitnessYogaPilates❤ I celebrate your health and your journey, Natasha! You shine, girl ❤❤❤
How long were you off of it
@@dinahhenson7862 started being inconsistent and then stopped around August. Found out it was back in December 😳
Dr.Amy, you are heaven-sent! Really among the few, if not the only one, talking about these issues surrounding cancer-survivors. So grateful for your work! May I just also mention a little thing? The way this video is edited seems a bit more in the style of the current youth, who may have a pretty damaged attention span and need that style to keep engaged. A lot, if not most, of your viewers are women in their middle-age and above, so it´d be very kind if you could keep the videos without the incessant "quick zoom in-zoom out". I´m a fairly young person, but still had to put the screen down and just listen to your golden advice. It was almost disturbing to the eyes to watch the quick style of editing. I hope it´s okay to give that constructive criticism, as you can see below...many have pointed out having the same issue. God bless you dr! Thank you so much for your efforts! 💐
@Khwaab I listened to this video while falling asleep and I'm glad I had the screen off and was just listening to it 😂
Hi- 64 years old. Had Stage 2 with lymph node involvement 3 years ago. Had a large lumpectomy, chemo and 33 rounds of radiation. Tried 2 aromatase inhibitors with severe joint pain. Was difficult to work. Now on tamoxifen for 3 years, easier on me overall. Ladies, educate yourself on the science and statistical reoccurrence percentages with and without hormone blockers. The data is compelling that you should try to stay on them. Per Amy, exercise is key. Yes I have gained 14 lbs but I am now working out 4 days a week and have lots more energy. Take green tea supplements; fish oil, vitamin D, magnesium glycinate and berberine. I also started over the counter Amberen for menopause related symptoms and it seems to help. Get an Aleimai cooling blanket for hot flashes. But stay on your meds. My friend did not and her stage 1 cancer spread to bone and lung 9 years later. Best of luck!
What about women who want to stay on them but just cannot as they are so poorly like myself I’ve tried 2 now and had terrible migraine it got so bad they were there nearly all the time . I’m 49 second time cancer patient breast and could not even walk down stairs for awful bone pain in my knees my mood was sooo low no energy … I’m so happy for the women who can manage them but don’t want people to judge us who’s bodies cannot I have no quality of life on these awful drugs 😢thank you for sharing sending ❤to everyone who has cancer horrible 😢
@@clairebeever3038do what is best for you ! Yes the risk is scary but let’s be honest we all need a decent quality of life !! It is your body and life - you do what you must ❤
@@clairebeever3038
Bless your heart, pink sister. I too have suffered, trying to take every single one of the AI drugs, I'm allergic and end up in anaphylaxis every time, take meds to counteract the least of these, which happens to be Letrozole. Sigh, I have ZERO quality of life, zero energy, I've become one with the couch, my husband does everything including taking care of our youngest child, our 9yo daughter......I just couldn't do this any longer!! It took 3 years, to get through the surgeries for the mastectomy and then chemotherapy, of my IDC Diagnosis in September 2019. I've been taking one kind or another of the AIs and up until 3 days ago had lastly taken Letrozole. I don't want to end up with breast cancer again, especially breast cancer that's lodging somewhere besides my remaining breast, but I can't do this anymore!!! 😭
I don't call this, whatever THIS IS, "living". 🤕🥺
I hope this finds you continuing to do well and I pray for all of us who've been touched by breast cancer.
🙏🏼💕
The data is dirty math! It is a toxin and has done great harm to many. Do you even test if you metabolize it?
A friend of mine had mets while she was on Tamoxifen so it lowers your risk, but doesn't eliminate it.
I have been taking Tamoxifen for the last 2 years and I hardly have any side effects.
Wow really? What about hair thinning, weight gain and vaginal dryness? I’m starting tamoxifen soon and I’m dreading the side effects I just mentioned
@sacredcaston6030 I've heard some people react well to hormone therapy and don't really experience any particularly bothersome side effects.
I honestly wish you the best and hope you are one of those people🙏🏼
As far as hair thinning and vaginal dryness are concerned there are topical remedies that can bring relief, such as minoxidil (or even rosemary oil, which has been proven to be just as effective) and vaginal moisturizer with hyaluronic acid (Vagisil makes a good one)
@@sacredcaston6030 I have no issue with my hair. I have a head full of it. No vaginal dryness. As far as my weight, I even lost about 20 pounds since last year.
The only side effect I have is hot flashes some nights.
@@sacredcaston6030I have been on for 3 years. My hair is normal. But the JOINT PAIN. Holy Moses. I've been tested for ms, lupus, mris, rheumatologist, X-rays, injections in spine, hips, elbows, si joints, foot surgery. The pain has been unbearable. 24/7. I take gabepentin, cymbalta, celbrex for pain and joint swelling. Nothing helps. I just found out like that's the sole reason for ALL of my pain. I am 5 days tamoxifen free. My quality of life sucks. I've gained 60 lbs from not being able to move or bend. I didn't think I had any side effects. This whole time. I was soooo wrong. I am miserable. Constant pain is no life for me.
@@desertrose294I would like to point out that these hair treatments are also not without risk. I am unable to use them because of the effects they have on my blood pressure. As to using hyaluronic lubricants, I tried them and they didn’t work for me.
I’m 5 years post breast cancer and now in menopause at age 52.
Dealing with this is different for each person.
From what I hear, hormone treatment is horrible. The side effects are appalling, and doctors push this crap like its candy. Side effects include 10 years of joint pain so severe patients can't stay in one position for 20 minutes. I'm bipolar. The last thing I need is to be depressed for 10 years. I've even heard that the symptoms don't stop after you stop the meds, so it's risky to even try them. I'm 67 and have had 4 heart attacks. The chances of me living 10 more years were slim before I developed breast cancer. If I take this garbage for 10 years, I will be miserable for the rest of my life. That is hardly "treatment;" it's torture. As for counselors, I live in Vegas. "Healthcare" here sucks. I can't even see a shrink, just a nurse practitioner. He won't prescribe meds for anxiety stronger than an antihistamine because he says it will make me "senile." I have no one to talk to and no one to help me with anything at all. I don't need to be sick and depressed for 10 years so cancer MIGHT not recur.
Here after watching the video to see what others say about tamoxifen. I wish you the best, sending you hugs💖
it's definitely NOT like that for everyone. I'm 2-1/2 years in with only some joint and muscle pain.
It's different for everyone, don't assume the worst.
Yes u r right good to hear that its didn't effect u a lot I m going to start mine soon Hooe for the best
Does the tamoxifen makes ur braun foggy?
I agree with you.
If I was the same age as you I'd do the same. Tamoxifen increases risk of developing blood clots which is definitely unsafe for someone that had 4 heart attacks.
I have struggled with depression, anxiety and mood and irritability issues since childhood. There is just nonway Tamoxifin would work for me.
Same here. I'd be suicidal.
I said no to 15 years ago. No return cancer. Glad I dodged a bullet.
Hi there, could you share your lifestyle, please? Have you changed anything to prevent recurrence? I stopped tamoxifen one year ago due to severe side effects, however, recurrence is a fear I still couldn't get rid of and I know it's not good for my mental health 😢
Not especially healthy lifestyle. I have a diet common to most. I do not eat fast food or drink alcohol.
@@wandaknoer2839 I'm so happy for you and your recovery🌹🙏
If it's ok with you,could you share about type-was it DCIS or IDC?
Lobular carcinoma sclerosing adenosis
A dear friend stopped Tamoxifen and is now fighting metastatic breast cancer.
So I guess you have to weigh discomfort with death.
i decided against Tamoxifen because it made me so sick right out of the gate .
i am 11 yrs cancer free ER+/PR+
Thank you for saying this. I’m er+ pr+ too and don’t want to take it
I just started on tamoxifen and it’s so hard for me to know if I made the right decision. I don’t want to regret taking it but also don’t want to regret not taking it 😢
So what is good for someone with HER2+
With reoccurrence? Am confused and feel they will kill me with all these drugs 😊
@@soulala4585same thoughts I dont want to regret taking it or not. . But I really decided not to take tamoxifine because I am not ready for the side effect. GOD bless Us all .I am praying for our complete healing with every decission we make.
I want to know this too regarding HER+@@pulsymama1473
And, if it's not curative? Literally, what's the point of therapy? Genuine question
it suppresses metastatic rogue cells (to my understanding)
Yet, rogue cells- isn't that why we were tortured with chemo? To kill the rogue cells? Over treatment.
Tamoxifen caused me to have a massive stroke that put me on a wheelchair and robbed my life as I knew it
Sorry to hear, I was wondering about the possibility of this side effect that is listed but no one mentions
So sorry
I’m sorry you had a stroke. 😢 My oncologist took me off of Tamoxifen because I had a TIA. She was afraid I’d have a full blown (?) stroke.
Yes my girlfriend got a blood clot on tamoxifen
After a miserable 15months first on anastrozole then on Tamoxifen, I said NO. No more. Every so-called "rare" side effect I had. If I stayed on it for 5+ years per protocol, I would have ended up in the wheelchair, bald, possibly with a uterine cancer or dead. No, I'll take my chances and enjoy life now while I still can without being in pain and miserable all the time.
Same here.
Same here. One month on Letrazole and Amebaciclib was totally debilitating. I'm done. What must be will be. I'm happy and healthy and can get out of bed again. That's all that matters. My quality of life now. I've had 54 glorious years. ..
I aggree fully with the above comments . I was given two of these drugs and decided to give both up due to side effects . I am glad that there are other woman like myself .
Same here, saying no. Doctors who've never taken the drugs will tell you the side effects are "extremely rare". No. They are actually common.
love and respect from Serbia ❤ sooo true!thank you dr.Amy!
I am on Tamoxifen for 2 months now, have gained zero weight, actually lost 10 pounds. My periods are shorter the bad side effects are fatigue and joint pain, I have 48 months to go to finish my tamoxifen treatment.
I'm cancer free but I would like to stop taking tamoxine medication
So true. Joint pain to the point that you cannot bend down to brush your teeth.
I cannot believe for 3 years we've been trying to figure out why I have so much pain post bc. I can't bend my hips at all. It's all I can do to sit, lay, stand, walk. Running is out of the question. Even walking fast. Up hill, not happening. I wish I would've known it was all from tamoxifen. I can't bend my elbows. Fingers. I just found this out so I stopped way early. Day 5 tamoxifen free. Never again. I'll take my chances w cancer.
You forgot to mention blood clots from Tamoxifen. I told my oncologist that I had a family history of blood clots, and after much arguing I refused to take Tamoxifen. I got a very bad case of covid and developed an acute pulmonary embolism in my left lung that almost killed me. The pulmonary doctor in the hospital said if I was on Tamoxifen I would have surely not survived the covid.
I had a blood clot in my heart & my onco just shrugged it off when confronted. He said well you are on xarelto you should be fine.
I told my oncologist the same, and he told me to not worry about it, that doesn't happen to anyone. Next time I saw him I was in a wheelchair because of a devastating stroke.
@@carolinaalvesdelima675 OMG, I hope you are doing better. Sadly some doctors just go with the program
Congratulations on holding your ground with the oncologist.
Hi Carolina,
So sorry about your situation. Hope the oncologist had the grace to apologize. But my bet is he didn't.
Tamoxifen is horrible! I tried to take it 3 separate times and had the worst side effects. I’m so happy I stopped the medication.
What were some of your side effects?
For me a blood clot in lung
@@olanrebutler9684I've recently stopped taking it and had hair loss, weight gain, brain fog, lethargy and some anxiety.
Are you doing anything to prevent reoccurrence? I’m not taking it either
No, I’ve had surgery, and radiation, Arimidex became way too debilitating, tamoxifen caused a clot, anticoagulant was horrendous, my radiation oncologist said there’s no guarantee with these drugs to stop recurrence, they don’t kill cancer cells
I had an adverse side effects for taking tamoxifen. Regular severe leg cramps, daily head ache and depression. So I decided to stop after two months and took the chance. After more than 14 years the cancer came back so this time I am hoping that I will not experience these horrible side effects.
i've gained 20lbs since being on tamoxifen ~6 months. i thought tamoxifen can actually increase estrogen in certain parts of the body. yes it decreases in the breast, bones, brain etc. but tamoxifen's own literature says it can increase circulating estrogen 6-fold. is the weight gain from low or high estrogen?!
I had breast cancer in 2018, aged 59 had a small tumour removed then radiotherapy …I tried tamoxifen for two months but joint pain was severe so I stopped taking it..also tried letrozole and had same side effects. As of 2023 I was diagnosed after annual mammogram with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in my lower back, breast, lymph node, sternum, hip and left femur. Devastated and now think if only I’d kept taking it I may have had a better outcome…..please be careful of the choices ahead.
I am interested in what kind of breast cancer you had. I am SO sorry that happened and radiation did not kill all of the cancer cells I gather. You mention you had a mammogram so do you have both breasts? I had a lumpectomy 3 months ago and more small cancer cells were found in the tissue they took out. So just finished a double mastectomy and start 30 rounds of radiation this coming week. I am 67 and very on the fence about taking any of the estrogen blockers My onco test scores were 2 qnd 7 so very low. Did not need chemo thankfully. Thnx for any further info you might share.
There are NO guarantees even when taking it. know people to go on to stage 4 while taking it. Prayers for us all!
I am so very sorry for your situation. I firmly believe if there were more videos from people who have taken hormone blockers providing information about how to cope with the side effects that fewer people would stop taking them. I really HATE videos like thus one, because they are very one sided. Prayers for you, dear.
I had a stage 4 breast cancer. Tamoxifen and zolladex didn't help me actually. I have been in strict keto diet and fasting with some radiation. Now I am cancer free 🙏.
I was diagnosed with HER2+ went through surgery and radiotherapy commenced tamoxifen but ceased after 3 months due to symptoms and mind set 12 yrs since diagnosed nil issues
Why is there no information about Tamoxifen withdrawal ? All I’ve been able to find is a couple UK cancer websites with forums from ladies who say it exists …My 10 years of Tamoxifen ended last April…had hardly any side effects the whole time…is it possible to have the side effects after stopping, or could it be natural menopause setting in, or both? A medication this strong has got to have withdrawal effects ..I’m just looking for answers
I would like to know this too
Me too!
Me 3!!
Weight gain flushes and vaginal atrophy which affects intimate relationships are a real problem with Tamoxifen
How you keep vagina non dry like normal skin?
Super informative. Finally some answers I was looking for. Thank you, Dr Amy!
What are your feelings on Anastrozole? I don’t want to start it. Does this advice pertain to this too? Thank you. :)
Start it!!! I was diagnosed with Stage 3 (high grade and all the bad stuff), 7 years ago. Anastrozole does have some side effects. For me, it’s been pretty mild. I know there’s no guarantee - BUT - knowing I have some protection against this disease that CAN come back…is enough for me to keep swallowing this tiny pill - every - single - day.
Massive debilitating
I agree with Kay, Gina. Please at least start it and see how it goes. My side effects have been mild as well. It gives me some sense of control (and confidence) over this tough situation.
Every single one of these side effects. It sucks but I feel I have no choice to stay on tamoxifen unless I want cancer again. I’m also on leuproid shots, it’s a double whammy.
Me too. It stacks the side effects.
I just had surgery I am 77 no lymph node involvement onco score of 30 won't do chemo or radiation say I can't handle it. They say I have a 50 percent chance of spread in 5 years gave me anastrozle omg I feel horrible I might stop it I also need another opinion
I did 16 months on anastrozole, couldn’t do anymore, too debilitating. Tamoxifen 15 months, caused a pulmonary embolism, no symptoms. Stopped them all
I’m on Letrozole and Lupron and have on and off joint pain. The worst for me is the weight gain and the increased belly fat. I eat mostly plant based and exercise but the number on the scales are not moving down. It’s frustrating when part of your recovery is to lose weight but your given medication that makes you gain it.
I hear you I am on Arimidex. And have weight gain. Too.
I’m on tamoxifen and have gained weight mostly belly fat
@@jinx6444
Ughhh….🙁
Hi! I’m supposed to start Letrozole soon, as a soon as I miss my period (they are inducing medical menopause). Can I ask you how long did it take for the effects of Letrozole to start? Have you made any changes to your nutrition and exercise? Have your had bone loss? I’ve always exercised and been slim, but I’m worried that this medication will take a toll on me. I’m very worried about a likely bone loss. Thank you..
I was on leterzole. I don't recall gaining weight, but once I started keto, I lost 10 pounds. I hope that helps
I fell in love with this lifesaving drug from the get go. Ovarian cancer has the poorest prognosis this drug changed that outcome. Had pts actually laughing in joy when they'd see me as a result of this therapy. They said they never thought they'd be cancer free after 2 relapses.
It makes me happy to see a positive comment out of this thread.
I started taking Osteo Bioflex and the joint pain went away and never returned
Thank you for this video, Doctor. By personal choice, I didn't want to take Tamoxifen after my breast cancer operation and radiotherapy. I had an unpleasant feeling about taking it. I had to face the oncologist's fear. I've been in remission for 2 years now, thank goodness! I radically changed my lifestyle and chose cruciferous supplements as a preventive measure, which I take every day.
Amazing! You have to make the right choice for you. It's not easy either way, right. You are doing it!
Hi Gai-ris: I chose life style changes exercise, acupuncture, supplements include ng cruciferous veg extracts , high vitc. So far 2 years reoccurence. My oncologist to his credit is thrilled I am doing well. Oh forgot the DIM to help withestrogen metabolism
@@lindajones4849 GREAT! I was also taking DIM+ until I discovered that it contained a carcinogenic substance: titanium dioxide (E171). Which brand do you use? Thanks for your help!
Glad to know I’m not the only one that is going to say no to the drugs…
@@lindajones4849 Yes! Thank you for your message. I do the same
I have been on Tamoxifen for 6 months and have had an exacerbation of my autoimmune disease Lichen Sclerosis, Lichen planus, 2 vaginal yeast infections, now oral thrush from dry mouth- Nystatin eliminated thrush but not my tongue and and mouth tissue are so sore… food is difficult to eat… told my oncologist I need to stop… have an appointment to discuss any alternatives…drinking plenty of water , exercising more than before my mastectomy… just can’t stand these side effects that also include hot flashes, irritability and leg cramps🙄.Also considering plant based diet with certain supplements by a breast cancer physician.
Thank you for all this great information 🙏🏻🌹
A whole lot of negative stuff here. So who has experienced a positive outcome? I'm preparing to have bilateral mastectomy with a HER2 neu positive diagnosis. Taxol and herxeptin will be the chemo of choice for me, then Tamoxifen. I've been a very active person and an athlete all my life. At 60, I was a spin biker until knee replacement. Now at 62, I'm still most active but can't spin with new knee😢. Anywho, any one out there who is active on Tamoxifen and better reviews.??
Yes - there are lots of people who do really well on Tamoxifen. You just need to learn the strategies to support your body while on the medication
I was wondering the same exact thing. I just went through bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction 11 days ago. Stage 1A, no lymphnode involvement. HER2 negative. Ki-6795% Progesterone 90%.
I feel amazing right now and reading the comments of everyone's experience is gloomy. It makes me scared. Like fitness, we just got to push through the pain.
@stephanieanderson7208 infusion #7 behind me, and I've felt great. Just minor side effects but go away in 1 day ( constipation, head sores, stomach cramps, headache). Good luck to you! You go bust this up!! A positive attitude goes a long way!!
@@cecilias9697 you too. From one active stong fitness chicken to another. We are all in this together. 💪
Im taking DIM right now instead of Tamoxifen. I hope this works well enough to make a difference. Oncologist gave me a script for 10 mg to start but I really dont want to try it 😢
I was prescribed Anastrazole being 58 took it for a year and suffered stiff knee joints, once I read that the medicine's half life is 50 hours, I started taking it every 48 hours and I feel much better now. I gained weight but is more because of slow thyroid gland issue, my TSH level is higher than normal.
I’m going to talk to my dr about my symptoms - I’m on my 5th year of taking tamoxifen- the hot and cold flushes are getting unbearable and I also read it can affect your vocals which is interesting- does anyone else notice voice issues on tamoxifen?
It makes my throat itch,so I tend to drink warm water right tru the day
I have taken it for a few months 5 mg. I cant take it anymore.
I ran a weekly fever (101.4 to 102.6F). My usual body temperature is 97. I stopped taking estrogen blockers. The fevers stopped. My doctor believes the fever and blocker are unrelated. He wants me to resume. Thoughts?
Thank you for all the information, very helpful ❤, what about lymphedema on left arm after breast cancer? Any recommendations please? Thanks 🙏!
Exercise helps but there are specific treatments for lymphedema .Ask your doc for referral to a physical therapist who is trained in lymphedema management. Good luck
Walking and deep breathing can help mild symptoms but u may need a referral to a physical therapist trained in lymphedema management. You may need a compression garment also.
I'm going through the same thing with swelling under my arms. Because of the mastectomies & I'm struggling with swelling. And I hate it.
Ask for a water pill to help with swelling
About to srart Letrozole aged 89! Already have arthritis in the spine and strong pain, but have little other choice.
We always have a choice. I’m much younger than you and have decided not to take them.
I stopped after 3 months
I took Tamoxifen for ten years for my breast cancer. I was cancer free for twelve years. Now I have serous carcinoma in my uterus. Had a hysterectomy and am going through chemo now. You can't win.
I saw on the side effects that it gives a high risk of uterine cancer 🥺🥺 do you think your cancer was linked to the tamoxifin?
Does this happen when you take anastrozole, or letriozole? I have them and take anastrozole. I also had uterine cancer so couldn't take tamoxifen.
I have both DCIS and ALH. 2 excisions.
Also what regular scan or mamagraphy/ultrasound is recommended to catch ALH? I had radiation
What about aromatase inhibitors for post menopausal women?
Mam My last pet ct scan showed there was no cancer on my body . I got breast cancer 13 years before and I racently taking denosomub ,Pelbociclib 100mg ,faslodex and zoladex.if I don’t hv any cancer now why am I taking all injections .I want to stop taking all injections as it has a lot of side effects pls Mam advise me
I stopped tamoxifen after 2 months. I had gained 15 lbs and my muscles always hurt.
I never took that crap. It's been 14 year's ago.
Ok, well great for you. But for many of us, that"crap" is saving our lives.
And, btw..i know what I'm talking about..having dealt with( successfully ) my son's terminal rhabdomyosarcoma 28 years ago
@@liztod1497is it really? Do you even know if you metabolize it? Are you blindly taking it?
@@helenbogaard7292me either. It gave me 2 percent benefit and 2 percent chance of ovarian cancer.
Are you doing anything else for reoccurrence? I didn’t take it either?
Sags and ages the skin. I don’t know if this is reversible with water?
Same here. I drink water like a crazy person and my skin keeps looking older and older. There must be more a person can do for this
My friend was prescribed Tamoxifen 20mg and is suffering from lymphodema but the doctor is not reducing the dose to 10mg, they just give the same dose to patients for prevention and treatment alike.
I'm not on Tamoxifen but I am 56 and every symptom you describe I have due to menopause, I am now just 9 months from my last period
Everything hurts all the time
Tamoxifen would be my 4th & final attempt at hormone blockers. I had every side effect: severe joint & muscle pain, headaches, nausea, daily diarrhea, fatigue, mood changes, insomnia, hot flashes... you name it, I had them all.
I refuse to take it. Enough already. My quality of life is more important. My oncologist is adamant for me to take these blockers for 10 years.
I'm 72. Im active. I eat healthy. I exercise. So be it.
I help women who are in this exact same situation. I know it almost sounds too good to be true at this point but we can get rid of the side effects. I've done it for thousands of women
I refused any hormone pills
I’m refusing them too!
I’m trying them as mine is advanced but the side effects are just too much I feel terrible head pain daily joint pain sick 🤢 too I just cannot do it
I didn't take any ERT after my hysterectomy & I was fine. I think the way to get extra estrogen out of your body is to eat less. Because if you lose weight that would take some estrogen out of your body.
Same.. I refused. How do you mitigate fear of reoccurrence and are you doing anything natural to prevent??
I am refusing them to I am sick of medicines being shoved in my face. After I had radio active iodine done to my thyroid that's when it began with me having any Cancer. Before that my uterus was fine. Then so were my breasts I didn't have Cancer. Then when I was pressured into gaining weight. It makes me not want to listen to this kind of advice either. I wish you would please stop advertising about these hormones on my page.
So did you stop tamoxifen altogether before the five years or is this video what to expect after you stopped?
So should I stop taking it? I’m 41 and absolutely hates how I feel
The same here. I'm 41. Did you stop with tamoxifen? I still take it:/
45 yrs old. Stopped after 2 months. My brain fog is lifting.
I am 40 does it make ir brain foggy just like in chemo treatment?
@@mehvishaftab6687 honestly..... no. Chemo brain was way worse. I occasionaly forget things, feeling less bright than in my (pre-cancer) past. But it is not so bad as the chemo brain was. (On tamoxifen 8 months atm)
@@mehvishaftab6687 I guess it's individual... I did not have chemo but was feeling like I literally had no brain while on tamoxifen.. just not myself at all. stopped taking it after 5 months
Dr.Amy, can a breast cancer survivor take nuts & bone broth everyday for joint pain?
Ok the tamoxifen made me have horrible joint pain. I already have degenerative disc disease and osteoporosis. I chose at 66 and 72 to not take it. I have tried two others that made my hair thin terribly. I have weight gain and awful insomnia. My dry mouth awful. I am never without a drink near. At my age 74 now I think I will just try to live my life. My oncologist ordered Letrozole for me yesterday. It is the last try. I am not sure I want to try it. At 74 how many years anyway.
Good luck to you. I went off tamoxifen after 2 years due to horrible mental side effects. I don’t look back. Sometimes I feel a little uneasy but I choose not to take it and the quality of my life is SO much better.
Hi could you please talk about the sexual side effects of tamoxifen ? Dryness, pain with intercourse, decreased sex drive. Thank you 😊
Absolutely!
Can i take supplements like Vit C, calcium & magnesium, B complex, salmon omega, protein powder (plant base), lecithin E, Q10 if i take tamoxifen?
If you are on or have taken 20mg of Tamoxifen make sure you share with your eye care provider. I developed premature cataracts and two years later began dealing with retinopathy. Never heard of such a thing. After a year of going to the eye doctor I was recommended to Retinal Specialist. After thorough examination was diagnosed with tamoxifen related retinopathy. I am losing eyesight in left eye. Retinopathy appears to occur in as many as 12% of patients taking 20 mg tamoxifen a day for over 2 years. No one is talking about this side effects. I am experiencing a cloudy milky film in my left eye. Not sure Doctors are giving 20mg today.
I'm so sorry. 20 mg is the standard dose but my oncologist agreed to let me try 10 mg first but I still am not wanting to try it. I'm so sorry about your eyes.
This is horrible. I'm so sorry you have to go through this.
Another reason for me not to take it.
Great video, but the constant zooming in and out is kind of distracting. There’s no need for that.
What is the different between tamoxifen or Anastrozole?
Tamoxifen is for premenopause + Anastrole is only for post menopausel women*
Hi Dr. Amy. I took Tamoxifen for a period of 2 years... then changed x Anastrozol...and started with uterine bleeding. 15 days of heavy period, then the doctor made me an hysteroscopy...and now the period is lighter....but it doesen't stop yet. Can you tell us more about this side effect? Thank you very much. Greets from Argentina.
Am 64 and doctor want to give me PALBOCICLIB 75 mg for 1 year
Could you tell me about this medication please .. it’s because of 1 breast pones Cancer for 1 year .. please I need you help
I was given a dose of 20 mgs. I break it down and take 5mgs as I read a thesis on the internet which stated 5mgs did the same job as 20 and without side effects.
Hi there, could you share the study you read, please? I've stopped tamoxifen after getting far too many severe side effects.
I'm going to participate in this study through City of Hope. It's getting wonderful results apparently. I start taking 5mg on Monday.
How r u feeling g now after taking 5mg does it effect the same
Interesting.
I just started on 5 mg.
last month I have uoltrasuond den raspa result endometrial scraping Biopsy Endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia I'm worried 😟 because my ovaries undergo surgery now
After all the hot flashes joint pain, dry skin loss of hair… Does anyone know when you stop taking it? Do you get yourself back or is this a permanent loss? I can hardly walk anymore.
Wow, this sounds terrible. Definitely doesn’t need to be like this. Email me if you want to chat more and we can fix this. dramy@cancerfreedomprogram.com
Mam dcis(g2) i onkolog nie przepisal mi tomoksifenu?
Why is this video so chopped up? Every sentence you finish, you cut in with a new video of you saying the next sentence. You delete the natural pause, of you catching your breath and your audience letting things sink it! It's dreadful, I can't bear to watch
If you go through menapause naturally, do you still get joint pain? Just curious if this only due to medical menapause.
I went through menopause naturally, and yes you do have joint pain.
Hi! I know some women who went through menopause. None of them had or are experiencing joint pain. I believe that it depends a lot on how “healthy” your body is and what you have inherited from your mum. My mum only had hot flashes for maybe 9 months and nothing else. My sister has been into menopause for about a year now. She has no side effects yet. A sister of a good friend also is experiencing no side effects. Everybody is different.
Thanks again Dr I just watched the first video and I am positive that we should keep talking Tamoxifen. Before the Oncologist gave Letrozole. I felt horrible then she changed to tamoxifen.
Doctor AMY , please contact me. I am going thro a difficult time in terms of medical issues. Thank U so much
I would be much more inclined to trust what you are presenting if you outlined both pros and cons of this medication in a non-biased way. This feels like a sales pitch.
I am starting radiation in 10 days and do not want to take the estrogen blockers. It makes sense in a way but it just gives you all the symptoms of menopause which they used to treat with HRT and ended up causing cancer. Do you think its possible to do it with diet, supplements and exercise without the medication? They suggest the diet, exercise and supplements as a way to help stop it from coming back aka a preventive . I'm interested to know ifI there any studies on this,
I'm here looking for info for my lady she just finished radiation and was scheduled to start the drug to, I found beetroot, DIM, and other natural estrogen balancers that seem very effective stay up all night researching how to help her naturally.❤️
God bless you my brother. You’re 💯!!!! I’m going natural with my treatment as well. Look in hydrogen peroxide food grade 35%.
@@AngeLola1003 What do you do with hydrogen peroxide?
@@bourgsusan google the one minute cure by Dr. Williams
You can search pub med for natural estrogen blockers and there is a list.
Wow thank you dr. I had put on weight alots I had took tomoxifen for 1 year and 1/2 now my dr. Said tell me I not need to take it but I decided to take it and my mood so bad not my self and I am 51 years old DCIs cancer 1 and I not need to do radio or cemo thank dr .
Do u feel in ur self while taking tamoxifen?
Hi Dr Amy. Ive been on Tamoxifen almost 10 years. Ive stopped as my brand seems to have stopped. I changed brands at the beginning and have managed by sticking to my brand . I am a fitness instructor. However fir the last 18 months ive had neck and joint pain. Worse since coming off tamoxifen. Any suggestions please?
Ive had investigation. Nothing else found as yet. Thank goodness. Can this be linked to Tamoxifen?
Is there an alternative to Tamoxifen?
Is it the same for anastrozole
Worse.
me cancer survivors breast can cer stage 8 years use Tamoxifen
Thanks ,Dr.Amy.l will speak with you later.
I stopped because of the side effects. But im back on 5 mg.
Dr Amy I was diagnosed early breast cancer 2020. I am 66 opted for removal of my right breast. I was given Tamoxifen 20mg this is my 4th year taking Tamoxifen. My skin is looking like an old woman I get these hot flashes I can't sleep sometimes i get depressed. My question is after my surgery I was told the cancer was not aggressive.
So there was no need for me to do chemotherapy thats why I was put on Tamoxifen which I was told to take for 5 years. I have put on weight. I want to stop. Please advise
I have been on Tamoxifen for 3 years. I feel it has aged me at least 10 years. It’s so depressing
Thank you so much. ❤️
Glad you found it helpful!
They told me after do radiation I have to take that , I’m not taking that, I have carcinoma Ductal situ do you think I should take radiation?
I feel you! 44 just had a lumpectomy last week, path report showing IDC and situ I was told I may have to take moxy…. I’m not taking it either.. I will eat lettuce everyday before I take that pill.
I wouldn't... I'd really change my diet adding alot of organic fruits and veg, do ozone therapy and iv vitamins.
They found IDC and IDC in situ in the same breast, cancer free in the breast. However, the cancer traveled to my lymph nodes 2/3. I have to do 6 months of Chemo by weekly for three months then weekly for three months, and 6 weeks of radiation.. I’m at peace! God has us in his hands. My 12 yr old nephew died of brain cancer in 2019. Never complained about anything! I think of all the children that are suffering and think if they can battle this, I’ll join forces with them. God bless you!!
Hi Dr. Aymee do you know anything about PARP inhibitor and the side effects? Thank you
I had ductile cancer. Did radiation and chemo. Brain fog was the worst . I thought I had lost most of my short term memory. But my therapist encouraged me to do the same word games and crossword puzzles I did anyway. Blessings to those going through it now.
Would this apply to aromatase inhibitors also?
The drugs work in different ways in the body so no. But I do have other videos on AROMATASE inhibitors 🙌🏻
Change the title, it’s misleading. It may make people think that you can just stop it.
Anyone on here doing 10 mgs of less of tamoxifen ? Curious if this is “allowed” and if so , are your side effects more manageable ? Asking because saw below that there is a trial for 5mg doses vs 20 mg
Side effects are generally no less with a lesser dose
Jestem z polski . W grudniu przeszłam operacje mastektomie z uwagi na raka przedinwazyjnego In Situ. Miałam zalecony Tamoxifen 20 ale moja onkolog zmniejszyła mi dawkę do 10 ponieważ miałam przerost endometrium. Po zmniejszeniu dawki endometrium w normie . W dalszym ciągu mam uderzenia gorąca . Ból stawów miałam jeszcze przed diagnoza .
I do take 10mg. I am still experiencing the same side effect but a just bit better in feeling wise.
I dropped my dose to 10mg and the side effects DID lessen. I recently stopped taking it for a month and felt normal after about a week. Started it again, and after 3 days noticed foot pain. The rest of the side effects have not yet returned, but probably will! Been about 6 days now
@@dramycancerrecovery I went from 5mgs to 10 mgs of Tamoxifen and my side effects increased.
I already have all the tamoxifen side effects for the last couple of years without taking tamoxifen. I started tamoxifen 4 days ago, so let's see what happens.
Keto or carnivore with IF is the way to go to lose weight and get testosterone pellets.
Thanks! I’m trying to lose tamoxifen weight!
Drinking milk for your bones (osteoporosis) has actually shown to cause more problems. Taking calcium supplements isn’t the answer either. Eating food rich in calcium such as broccoli 🥦 does help the body absorb calcium.
So take it or don’t take it?
That a decision I will never make for you. You now have more information about the drug - you are incredibly intelligent and can make the decision for yourself.
there is some mis-information in this video. I am sure you are well-meaning but the section on bones is inaccurate.
Thank u 💕
You're welcome 😊
What about lectures all is temoxican worse than lectures?All cause that's what I have to take 47 years
I have my appointment in a week's time with my oncologist to discuss my treatment. I am sure they will say that i will have to take tamoxifen, i am thinking of declining this treatment. Joint and muscle pain will cause me not to continue with my trade as a hairdresser. I love this information but i know that I will decide on the day of my appointment and what is best for me.
I don't blame you that's excactly what I will tell my doctor. I will not take that medication or anything like it. I will try to see if there are other ways that are more alternative.
Eat more protein
Drink more water
I saw take to your Oncologist before stopping any medicines . Everyone is different .
Half of the people prescribed hormone blockers go off of them