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What Are The Side Effects Of Tamoxifen?
Question: I am 66, and BRCA 2 positive. I was told to take Tamoxifen for breast cancer prevention. I was told by my MD that there are no side effects and that this would also help with bone density. What do you think? I am very healthy so far. I have had ovary removal also as prevention. I am worried about side effects and do not like taking medications unless very necessary... Thanks so much
Brief Answer:
it may be of benefit
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.
Ovary removal offers lot of protection against breast cancer in brca positive patients. But it is not 100%. Additional tamoxifen probably reduces the risk further. 'Probably' because studies of high quality are lacking. But few studies have shown benefit.
It also promotes bone health. Only downside of long-term use is endometrial hyperplasia and 1% risk of endometrial cancer. If your uterus has been removed then this doesn't apply.
Hope this helps.
Regards
it may be of benefit
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.
Ovary removal offers lot of protection against breast cancer in brca positive patients. But it is not 100%. Additional tamoxifen probably reduces the risk further. 'Probably' because studies of high quality are lacking. But few studies have shown benefit.
It also promotes bone health. Only downside of long-term use is endometrial hyperplasia and 1% risk of endometrial cancer. If your uterus has been removed then this doesn't apply.
Hope this helps.
Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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