Why do you take tamoxifen for 5 years?

Why do you take tamoxifen for 5 years?

Women who took tamoxifen for 5 years had a 17 percent lower risk of cancer recurrence and a 9 percent lower risk of death from breast cancer than women who took tamoxifen for only 2 years. They also had a 30 percent lower risk of developing cancer in the contralateral (other) breast.

What do I report when taking tamoxifen?

If you’re taking tamoxifen, call your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms:

• abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.
• pain or pressure in the pelvis.
• leg swelling or tenderness.
• chest pain.
• shortness of breath.
• weakness, tingling, or numbness in your face, arm, or leg.
• difficulty speaking or understanding.

Do I have to take tamoxifen for five years?

For breast cancer prevention, people are usually advised to take tamoxifen for five years. It’s also prescribed for five years for most patients with early stage, low-risk estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. For those at higher risk, it can be taken as long as 10 years.

Can tamoxifen make you tired?

Tamoxifen: Not Without Side Effects Side effects include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, fatigue, and nausea.

Is vaginal dryness a side effect of tamoxifen?

Treatment with tamoxifen is associated with sexual side effects, such as increased vaginal dryness and pain/discomfort during sexual activity.

Can tamoxifen cause upset stomach?

Nausea (upset stomach) may sometimes occur when you first start taking tamoxifen. This should improve as your body adjusts to the tamoxifen. Most people have little or no nausea.

What happens if I stop taking tamoxifen?

Blood clots in your veins or lungs. These can occur for up to 2–3 months after you stop taking tamoxifen. Symptoms can include: sudden chest pain.

What happens when you quit taking tamoxifen?

Blood clots in your veins or lungs. These can occur for up to 2–3 months after you stop taking tamoxifen. Symptoms can include: sudden chest pain. shortness of breath.