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Tamoxifen input

Posted by lovethedesert @lovethedesert, Jan 24, 2021

Hi All, it seems I'm getting Tamoxifen thrown at me from every direction. I'm still reluctant due what I read as side effects, short history again, partial mastectomy, stage one, in October, margins clear, lymph nodes clear, 79 years old, single, reasonably healthy except for crummy knees! What's your input? My oncologist which I finally got to see definitely ruled out chemo, said didn't think radiation was necessary, but felt to be sure no cells escaped that Tamoxifen was indicated. HELP, I'm a Libra and find decisions hard without much pondering. Thank you all my Cancer survivor Sisters.

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bd2024 | @bd2024 | Jul 22 1:40pm

Was 54, breast cancer surgery, reconstruction through 3 months. Went very well. Was volunteering with B.C. Associations. Was happy! Started Tamoxifen and within a week started crying all the time. So depressed it stopped volunteering and I stayed home alone until I went back to work. Yes AGED! Almost needed a cane to walk. I managed to work ok, but a very different person ever since. I finished tamox after 5 yrs. Physically SO much better! But depression worse ever since. Now 10 yrs, 65 yrs old and had to retire.. so depressed. No meds help. Tried them all. I pray constantly for relief. Im ok around people when I can get out. Put up a front. I miss my real self!!!

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Laurie, Volunteer Mentor | @roch | Jul 27 10:11am
In reply to @bd2024 "Was 54, breast cancer surgery, reconstruction through 3 months. Went very well. Was volunteering with B.C...." + (show)
@bd2024

Was 54, breast cancer surgery, reconstruction through 3 months. Went very well. Was volunteering with B.C. Associations. Was happy! Started Tamoxifen and within a week started crying all the time. So depressed it stopped volunteering and I stayed home alone until I went back to work. Yes AGED! Almost needed a cane to walk. I managed to work ok, but a very different person ever since. I finished tamox after 5 yrs. Physically SO much better! But depression worse ever since. Now 10 yrs, 65 yrs old and had to retire.. so depressed. No meds help. Tried them all. I pray constantly for relief. Im ok around people when I can get out. Put up a front. I miss my real self!!!

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@bd2024

Welcome to Mayo Connect, I stopped taking AIs and Tamoxifen due to the crying. Once I came off them, the crying stopped.

It is a shame you are not able to find a medication to help with depression. Is a physiatrist prescribing or a primary provider?

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dick61 | @dick61 | Jul 28 7:19am

I am 84+ and have been taking tamoxifen for 3+ years. Don't be frightened by the horror stories you read on this site!! Use OTC support hose when riding for long distances, keep a positive mental attitude, get plenty of sleep/rest and know that this med prevents the few cancer cells from feeding on estrogen. It's a miraculous drug. I was told by several females to take the Mylan brand to prevent hot flashes and night sweats and, thus, I have avoided those symptoms. I order it from the MN mayo Clinic pharmacy. Again, thousands of people have successfully taken this drug for years and were saved from metastatic recurrence. Many of the folks who contribute to this site are a selective group of people who want to share their problems and negatives. I am doing fine and so will you.

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catlover2020 | @catlover2020 | Jul 28 10:40am

I too am LIBRA, and I have problem deciding what to do. I'm 65, had double mastectomy and no radiation needed. My health in my bones is poor. Tamoxifen is sitting in my drawer waiting for me to decide. September oncologist wants to inject ZOMETA, twice a year. I don't want any more pain. I also need Creon to digest my food. I have EPI.
I have a husband who is 78 and in the pass few weeks seems to be going down hill. Doesn't want to eat, drink or get out of his recliner. HELP

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1 reply
lifetraveler | @lifetraveler | Jul 29 7:24am
In reply to @catlover2020 "I too am LIBRA, and I have problem deciding what to do. I'm 65, had double..." + (show)
@catlover2020

I too am LIBRA, and I have problem deciding what to do. I'm 65, had double mastectomy and no radiation needed. My health in my bones is poor. Tamoxifen is sitting in my drawer waiting for me to decide. September oncologist wants to inject ZOMETA, twice a year. I don't want any more pain. I also need Creon to digest my food. I have EPI.
I have a husband who is 78 and in the pass few weeks seems to be going down hill. Doesn't want to eat, drink or get out of his recliner. HELP

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Hi! @catlover2020

I am so sorry for all you've been through! We'll keep you and your husband in our thoughts & prayers, pray that the gracious Lord grants you wisdom to make the best decision in the journey ahead, strength to strive on and hope & peace of mind to enjoy life!

Wishing you all a healthier and brighter tomorrow!

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