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Tuesday, October 11, 2011 Lyn asks

Q: What Other Treatment For Breast Cancer Is There Besides Tamoxifen?

I am struggling with tamoxifen weight gain and muscle cramps being the worst, I have had blood tests that show i am post menopausal is there another alternative?
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Answers (1)
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
10/11/11 4:36pm

Lyn, if you're definitely post-menopausal, you can switch to an aromatase inhibitor. While they come with their own side effects (possible joint pain and hair loss seemingly the most bothersome), at least they're a change from tamoxifen side effects.They're also a LOT more expensive. Ask your oncologist about Arimidex, Aromasin, or Femara, which are the three you and your doctor would consider. Good luck - PJH

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10/12/11 3:02am

Thank you i will do ! Yes i am having another blood test today to see how far in the menopause, then they will discuss what else i can try.

 

Many thanks

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PJ Hamel, Health Guide
10/12/11 5:07am

Good, Lyn, I'm glad you've got an action plan in place. Best of luck to you - hormone therapy can be challenging no matter what you take, and you have to balance the reduced risk of recurrence with those nasty side effects... wich is often a very tough balancing act. Take care- PJH

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By Lyn— Last Modified: 10/12/11, First Published: 10/11/11