Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen also known as tamoxabitch, by those of us who take it.

I took tamoxifen for two and a half years, until I was recently diagnosed again with breast cancer for the second time. I have stopped taking it now and will be taking a different medication, once I finish radiation.

Some of the not so wonderful side-effects of tamoxifen -

Weight gain. I have gained 50kgs since I started taking tamoxifen and it is near impossible to lose any of that weight. I went from wearing a size 12 - 14 to now wearing a size 20.
I also had several endometrium cysts, cysts on my ovaries, caused by tamoxifen. Tamoxifen can cause blood clots.

Tamoxifen increases the chance of cancer of the uterus (womb) in some women taking it. Tamoxifen may cause blockages to form in a vein, lung, or brain. In women, tamoxifen may cause cancer or other problems of the uterus (womb). In addition, tamoxifen has been reported to cause cataracts and other eye problems. I now also wear glasses.

As well as its needed effects, tamoxifen may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.




Some tamoxifen side effects may not need any medical attention. As your body gets used to the medicine these side effects may disappear.

Absent, missed, or irregular periods
decrease in the amount of urine
feeling of warmth
menstrual changes
noisy, rattling breathing
redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest
skin changes
stopping of menstrual bleeding
swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs
troubled breathing at rest
weight gain or loss
white or brownish vaginal discharge

Less common or rare

Abdominal or stomach cramps
black, tarry stools
bleeding gums
blood in the urine or stools
bluish color changes in skin color
bone pain
decreased interest in sexual intercourse
discouragement
feeling sad or empty
hair loss or thinning of the hair
headache
inability to have or keep an erection
irritability
itching in the genital area
loss of interest or pleasure
loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
nausea or vomiting (mild)
pain
pinpoint red spots on the skin
skin rash or dryness
stomach or pelvic discomfort, aching, or heaviness
swelling
trouble concentrating
trouble with sleeping
unusual bleeding or bruising