Another newbie!!

Just got script for Tamoxifen today and while this may sound vain given what we are going through, I am really worried about weight gain! Already have issue about changes to body and just not feeling good about myself atm. Is there one brand better than another regards weight?? I still feel like I am talking about someone else and to be honest am probably still in denial about the whole cancer thing. Just such a shock and everything has moved so quickly ( which is not a bad thing!). If anyone can give me any tips I would be really grateful, I’ve told a couple of friends but it’s hard for them to understand that I feel the bottom has just fallen out of my world! Hugs to everyone out there xx

Hello Magners

Welcome to the forums, this must be a very difficult time for you.

As well as the support you will receive on the forums we also have a free helpline where you can talk things through with a member of staff who are there to offer emotional support as well as practical information. The free phone number is 0808 800 6000 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00 and Saturday 10.00 to 2.00.

With best wishes

June, moderator

Hi Magners

I think it’s basically a case of trial and error! No one brand seems to be the same for everyone. I personally haven’t had an issue with weight gain. Well not excessive weight gain. Think I’ve put on about 5lb since the start of Tamoxifen 8months ago. But that could be down to the “treats” I enjoy, or the trip to Florida with lots of American size portions to enjoy ?

I know it’s hard, but try not to embark on this thinking about the negative things you have read. The list of side affects they give you is of all the possible issues. Some ladies are lucky enough to get none of them. The trick is to find the brand that’s best for you! Hopefully you’ll get the perfect brand for you straight away, but if not. Just keep trying.

Wishing you all the best

Sal xx

Hi Magnets I know exactly what you mean - im on Letroxole and had the same anxieties. If I discussed it with professionals they raised an eyebrow as if that was a minor worry and friends just said you can always lose weight at the end of the 5 yrs. My oncologist was very helpful and explained why the medication affects weight loss - he suggested that controlling insulin release may help so eating 3 meals and no snacking not even healthy snacks to avoid insulin spikes. I’m being so strict, eating much less than previously and still only losing a 1lb every few weeks. But I’m happy with that. I know what you mean though - it’s another bloody way this damn cancer has changed our lives …its bloody typical that these drugs don’t cause dramatic weight loss!!! Be kind to yourself xx

Hi. This is my first post. I know exactly what you mean when you say it feels like you’re talking about someone else. My experience was also very quick and I am still waiting for my head to catch up - I’m not sure it ever will to be honest. I have been taking tamoxifen since July and have not put on weight! I know lots of people say they do, but we are probably all of an age where weight gain happens naturally. I’m not saying it isn’t the drugs, but often I don’t think it is. I just make sure I don’t overeat, I keep alcohol to a minimum and I try to eat sensibly. It’s worked for me so far. As for dealing with the big C, I’m looking for anwers myself. I want to believe it won’t come back but afraid to tempt fate! How ridiculous does that sound?! Anyway, I describe it as having crossed a bridge that only went one way. I’m in a different field now, but the grass grows there too. Hang in there. 

I’ve been on tamixofen for 5y and have had minimal weight gain and I’ve stayed with Wockhardt.