5 or 10 Years of Tamoxifen

Hi, I was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer estrogen fed in 2018. Was told then after my mastectomy followed by radiotherapy it would be 10 years of Tamoxifen. So I’ve now been on it 5 years. I have been suffering severe menopause symptoms, worse being the sweats and joint pain. Had a break off the Tamoxifen and not sure if I am any better. My breast nurse says she had spoken to my Oncologist who is happy for me to stop the Tamoxifen saying I’ve probably now had the majority of the benefits from it and could stop it if I wanted. I was frightened to stop it completely so have restarted it after a break of 2 months and I feel my mood has went really down and am tearful. Any advice on whether 5 year’s would be sufficient or continue for a further 5.

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My oncologist said new research is showing positive results for 10 years. Hard to know though what’s the best thing for you x

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HI @Kitty18
As I was told by my Oncologist when I was diagnosed in 2012 , everyone reacts differently to any treatment . I know people that have had no trouble with Tamoxifen and others like me have horror stories . Personally, I discussed coming off of it after five years with my Oncologist and he said that it was my decision and that he was confident that my cancer had been removed but obviously not 100% , but as I say, everyone is different and reacts differently to the cancer treatments . Is there any way that you can talk to the Oncologist to get a more detailed opinion from them ? I know it is scary coming off a treatment that you have been on for so long , but I’m sure they give you the pro’s and cons and you can always contact the BCN nurses for more information Contact our nurses | Breast Cancer Now
Take care

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