Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Can Tomoxifen Be Taken When Treated For Breast Cancer?
Question: How can I be sure that taking Tomoxifen is the best course of action for me.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer on the 5th Dec. I had it removed on the 12th Dec. Pathology showed all the margins were clear & the lymph nodes were clear. It was suggested that a 5 year course of Tomoxifen is desirable. However I was advised of some of the side effects & one was the higher chance of developing Uterine cancer as I still have my womb. Should I have a hysterectomy? I want more information to help make these decisions. Thank you.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer on the 5th Dec. I had it removed on the 12th Dec. Pathology showed all the margins were clear & the lymph nodes were clear. It was suggested that a 5 year course of Tomoxifen is desirable. However I was advised of some of the side effects & one was the higher chance of developing Uterine cancer as I still have my womb. Should I have a hysterectomy? I want more information to help make these decisions. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Start Tomoxifen & try to prevent side effect/ hysterectomy as per need.
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for the query.
Cancer is a condition which is known for its fast spread/ recurrence & so every human being is scared of it. After going through the surgery to remove it end root, it's natural to be cautious about preventing its recurrence. I understand your concern.
* For you it is a better condition. Having a localized lesion with no sign of lymphatic spread- you are not to undertake pains taking/ harassing follow up treatments.( like radiotherapy). You should have a moral boost due to this fact , hope & be alarmed to prevent/ detect earliest any untoward reactions.
I think Tomoxifen is a risk lowering drug & so is the ideal treatment for you to cut off the growth of malignant cell hereafter. It acts by blocking the receptors for estrogen -which is essential for growth of malignant breast cells.
- When taken regularly for 5 years, its protective effect lasts for longer time
* Now about the side effect of the drug you are concerned of- possibility of developing endometrial cancer.
It is reported to be not a very common possibility. Of course one has to have some plan to be away from it. I feel there are two options for prevention-
1 - To get periodic checkup of endometrium by,
- Trans vaginal ultrasound/ pap testing/ endometrial sampling.
-Endometrial cancer is mostly symptomatic. It is associated with bleeding- thus can give a warning bell & does not attack while being unaware.
2 - Change of life style- Endometrial cancer can be prevented by ,
- Keep healthy weight. - Obesity increases the incidence.
This is achieved by controlled caloric intake & exercises.
- Keeping active throughout week. At least 30 minutes’ walk & active lifestyle will help.
3 - Removal of uterus- This can be thought of in case of high risk patients& so depends on the justification of the treating doctor.
- Also general condition & necessity of drastic action needs to be considered.
I feel, starting with the Tomoxifen & be on guard for side effects / to be ready for hysterectomy as per indication should be considered.
I hope I have given you sufficient information before you see your doctor.
If you have any follow up query, it's welcome. Be relaxed, take care, thanks.
Start Tomoxifen & try to prevent side effect/ hysterectomy as per need.
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for the query.
Cancer is a condition which is known for its fast spread/ recurrence & so every human being is scared of it. After going through the surgery to remove it end root, it's natural to be cautious about preventing its recurrence. I understand your concern.
* For you it is a better condition. Having a localized lesion with no sign of lymphatic spread- you are not to undertake pains taking/ harassing follow up treatments.( like radiotherapy). You should have a moral boost due to this fact , hope & be alarmed to prevent/ detect earliest any untoward reactions.
I think Tomoxifen is a risk lowering drug & so is the ideal treatment for you to cut off the growth of malignant cell hereafter. It acts by blocking the receptors for estrogen -which is essential for growth of malignant breast cells.
- When taken regularly for 5 years, its protective effect lasts for longer time
* Now about the side effect of the drug you are concerned of- possibility of developing endometrial cancer.
It is reported to be not a very common possibility. Of course one has to have some plan to be away from it. I feel there are two options for prevention-
1 - To get periodic checkup of endometrium by,
- Trans vaginal ultrasound/ pap testing/ endometrial sampling.
-Endometrial cancer is mostly symptomatic. It is associated with bleeding- thus can give a warning bell & does not attack while being unaware.
2 - Change of life style- Endometrial cancer can be prevented by ,
- Keep healthy weight. - Obesity increases the incidence.
This is achieved by controlled caloric intake & exercises.
- Keeping active throughout week. At least 30 minutes’ walk & active lifestyle will help.
3 - Removal of uterus- This can be thought of in case of high risk patients& so depends on the justification of the treating doctor.
- Also general condition & necessity of drastic action needs to be considered.
I feel, starting with the Tomoxifen & be on guard for side effects / to be ready for hysterectomy as per indication should be considered.
I hope I have given you sufficient information before you see your doctor.
If you have any follow up query, it's welcome. Be relaxed, take care, thanks.
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
