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Bottle o Tamoxifen

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Comments

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited May 2009

    Rachel, Enjoy EVERY moment with your son!  I know you will have a lifetime together, but it really does go by so fast.

    DV8Q....vasectomy??  Not sure of your relationship, but once I got my DH to be able to say the word without cringing, he did it and was surprised it wasn't as bad as he thought.  Now he's angry with himself that he didn't do it soon so I didn't have to take BC with hormones!

    Welcome to all others!

  • HelenaJ
    HelenaJ Member Posts: 304
    edited May 2009

    Dalins, I continued to get my periods although they only last for a few days.  Tamoxifen doesn't put you into menopause it just gives you menopause side effects.  It doesn't stop you from producing eostrogen (spelling?).  Everyone is different though - I didn't do chemo so didn't go into chemopause.

    Makraz - I have seen on previously posts how amazing your husband is and your comment about the vasectomy just reinforces that.  I am soooooo jealous. :)

    Helena

  • Rachel_BC
    Rachel_BC Member Posts: 679
    edited May 2009

    Ja, I am totally jealous if Linda's hubby too.  And what is this "sex" thing that keeps popping up on the thread?  Is that another SE?  OK, just kidding, I remember sex... sorta... kinda.

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited May 2009

    You guy are funny.  Yes, I am very lucky. 

    Yes, the sex thing is another side effect.  No estrogen+ low sex drive.  Are we having fun yet??

  • Rachel_BC
    Rachel_BC Member Posts: 679
    edited May 2009

    Oh Linda, the sex thing was a joke that didn't translate on the web... I was trying to say I didn't know what sex was... because it's been a long time and not because of cancer!  Or not just because of cancer.  Anyway, it's been a long time!

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited May 2009

    Rachel, I knew it was a joke.  My suggestions is to just go for it!  Even if your not there, sometimes it helps to just do it. 

    OMG, I should be on the Mojp thread!

  • DV8Q
    DV8Q Member Posts: 8
    edited May 2009
    Oh if only my BF would go for the vasectomy we have been together for 7yrs...I mentioned it to him that a vasectomy would seal the deal (in terms of marriage), but he probably thought I was joking. Ironically I am the only one with a sex drive in our relationship. The steroids really did a number on me  or maybe it the "sexual peak" that women are suposed to be at in their 30's . Guess that is all gonna change soon Frown
  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited May 2009

    DV8Q, it doesn't have to change!  You go girl!!

  • Rachel_BC
    Rachel_BC Member Posts: 679
    edited May 2009

    Linda- Sex: Even if you're not there, just do it?

    I mean, I understand even if there's not someone else there, just do it myself, but if I am not there, how???? Don't confuse the blonde!

    What's the Mojp thread?

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited May 2009

    Typo, meant the mojo thread.  Lots of advice.

    I meant that sometimes I may not have the desire to do it with my DH, but once we get going, I get more into it.  Too much info, sorry!

  • Munchy
    Munchy Member Posts: 59
    edited May 2009

    Hi all.  Update on the experiment on reducing my dosage.  Since I cut back my dosage by 25%, which I figure is appropriate for my size, I definitely feel a difference.  I have been able to lose 2 pounds in the past month!  Not a lot, but a least a start.  I also have been sleeping a WHOLE LOT better.  I have an appointment with my onc next month for my 6 month check-up, and I am thinking of asking him about taking a complete break for a while.  I just want to see if my side effects are really from the Tamoxifen or if maybe it's just plain menopause.

    A few words on the exercise subject:

    Linda - like you, I have always exercised - well for over 30 years, anyway, and I taught aerobics for many years.  I agree with you about mixing it up.  I run, bicycle, hike, weight train, do pilates and plyometrics and good old fashioned calisthenics (push-ups etc).  Not a big fan of the ellyptical machine, but that's just me.  Until now, all that activity has kept my weight under control and is THE best natural mood booster.  Nothing makes you feel better than a good workout! 

    Rachel - As far as changing your basic body shape... every trainer I've talked to agrees that it can't be done.  If you have a straight up and down body, you will never have a tiny waist and curvy bottom.  If you are pear shaped, you will never have skinny hips!  Don't let it discourage you though - keep up your hard work, and you WILL see positive changes.

    It is also generally accepted that keeping some resistance on your treadmill, bike or ellyptical trainer is beneficial in several ways.  First, it burns more calories.  Second, it will help keep your bones strong.  Third, it will add some muscle which does two things - makes your lower body firmer and raises your resting metabolism so you burn more calories even at rest.

    Run this past your trainer, and see if she agrees.  Just be sure that her certification is up to date, because the amount of new information and research makes for a constantly changing field.

    Wow, sorry about the long post... I suppose this belongs on an exercise thread instead!  It just happens to be my biggest area of interest.  Good luck! 

  • Rachel_BC
    Rachel_BC Member Posts: 679
    edited May 2009

    Hey Munchy, much appreciated.  In my case I *don't* want to change my shape.  I am all curves.  What I am worried about is my shape changing on Tamoxifen, losing my waist- right after I have won it back.  

    I also believe there's really no "spot" training, if I lose weight, it comes off where my body burns it until its gone.  

    There was some talk about Tamoxifen changing a woman's shape, making it more manly, redistributing the weight.

    On the resistance, I think it's fair to say I use my leg muscles differently without resistance.  I can see calves becoming thick with resistance.  But I put it at least at 2 of 10.. and I do regret the 200 calories that are not burned :(

    I appreciate any advice! 

  • vivvygirl
    vivvygirl Member Posts: 171
    edited June 2009

    Hi All,

    Does someone know how to turn the airconditioning on the Tamox Train up because it sure is hot here!

    Night sweats have taken over my life and can't seem to get a good nights sleep and believe me I need it.

    Any suggestions?

    Viv

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited June 2009

    Viv, I know what you mean.  When you figure it out, please let me know!

    Linda

  • BooBee
    BooBee Member Posts: 288
    edited June 2009

    I agree Viv and pass the towels. 

    I read some place on BC.org about a cooling pillow that's suppose to help.  I'm also looking for some PJ's that are made from wicking material.  Any suggestions?

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited June 2009

    I have a fan that I keep on my nightstand year round.  I also keep a face cloth in bed with me to keep myself dry.

  • HelenaJ
    HelenaJ Member Posts: 304
    edited June 2009

    Wow ladies - it is a weird drug.  I am actually on a 3 week break at the moment but I suffered "chills" no hot flashes at all.  As yesterday was our first day of winter I am not particularly looking forward to going back to the chills when I resume my Tamoxifen (I am going to be soooo optimistic this time...) - I also have my exchange surgery on 22 June and apparently implants are quite cold.  I hear scarves and leg warmers will be "in" this winter down here in Oz.  It will go with my 6" inch diamonte Priscilla heels Rachel  LOL. 

    I am having my CYPD26 test done today - anyone know how long it takes to get the results back? 

  • Springtime
    Springtime Member Posts: 3,372
    edited June 2009

    HelenaJ,

    I had chills  too! They seem to have abated. I am not sure if that's because it is now HOT outside, or I am used to it.

    I got hot flashes AND cold flashes. It's like my body's temperature regulation was messed up! I don't know if it is less now, or maybe I am used ot it. Just passed 2 months on Tamoxifen. 

  • Mary22
    Mary22 Member Posts: 428
    edited June 2009

    Rachel, I like your idea for a cure, CHOCOLATE!!!! Cheese burger, FF and a chocolate malt sound real good about now.

    Does it seems like the little that never bothered you before, really get on your nerve? All the silly nonesnse at work is really starting to wear me down. The women I work with are so catty and 2 face, I am so looking forward to the end of the year. Hopefully next school year will be much better. Before tamoxifen , I would just let everything go in one ear and out the other, well today I just ahd enough and told one of them so.

  • vivvygirl
    vivvygirl Member Posts: 171
    edited June 2009

    Well done Mary K,

    Life is too short to suffer fools!

    Hugs

    Viv

  • susan13
    susan13 Member Posts: 102
    edited June 2009

    Hey ladies,

    I get my tamox script in 2 days.   I've already packed on a good 10 lbs since chemo and being so non-active these last many months, mostly around my belly... it's huge! aghs.  I am going to try my darnest to start exercising today!!!!

    Rachel- I asked my onc. about the blood clot se, because just reading the possible se's freaked me out, so he suggested the baby aspirin. Not to mention the uterine cancer thing too.  But he assures me that the benefits I will get from tamox outweigh the risks of the more serious se's.  He also told me that it will help my bones and lower cholesterol.

    Sue

  • Mary22
    Mary22 Member Posts: 428
    edited June 2009

    Susan, is it the tamox or the baby aspirin that will help with bones and cholesterol?

  • susan13
    susan13 Member Posts: 102
    edited June 2009

    MaryK- My Onc. said the Tamox helps with bones and cholesterol.  What area of the Pocono's are you in?  We are headed to Jim Thorpe this weekend.

    I'm still worried about the possibility of blood clotting.  I sit in my car one hour each way to work, then come to work and sit at my desk in front of a computer for the next 8 hours.  Onc. says to make sure I get up often during the day to get my blood flowing thru my legs.

  • juli0212
    juli0212 Member Posts: 801
    edited June 2009

    Tamoxifen added weight gain to me :(...been on it since Feb. 2007, being chemo-induced into menopause in Oct. 2006, I'm ready to switch to an AI possibly next month (from my onco).  Since I have parathyroid issues (previous parathyroidectomy/high calcium, this time, high parathyroid hormone, NORMAL calcium)...tamox is much better for bones.  I cannot take any calcium supplements, but take Vitamin D, as I was deficient.  Bone density is fine...bone scans also are fine.  Feeling really down, and can relate to what someone said up farther about things bothering them that didn't before...MOST days I'm fine...I stay on a very even keel emotionally. ONCE in a blue moon, I get 'down' for no reason...it doesn't last, but feels like an 'anxious stomach' also...ugh.   Ah well...the things we go thru so as NOT to have cancer recurrences.

    Thanks for letting me vent!   ALL my best to all of you also fighting for survival....juli

  • DV8Q
    DV8Q Member Posts: 8
    edited June 2009

    I am having bone pain, similar to the effects of taxol but less intense, the only new thing is the Tamoxifen. What helps? Vicodine is too strong for this pain but that is what I took for it the last time.

  • DCMom
    DCMom Member Posts: 77
    edited June 2009

    Ladies,

    This is my first post on this thread, and I haven't read the post in entirety so forgive any old questions.  DVQ8 I have been having aches since I began tamoxifen.  I have been on it for about 10 months and the aches seem to increase occasionally and then subside.  I think I will try to start recording them because I am starting to think it is like PMS.  I get achy and it sends me into panic and then once the aches subside I calm down, feel great, start exercising and the aches come back.  I wonder if the body doesn't recooperate as well on tamoxifen so my muscle aches are greater.  I also read a lot of the arimedex thread and many of them commented on cramps in their feet with their foot pulling down and locking.  I've had that on occasion and wonder if a lot of these things are just related to menopause; natural or chemically induced.

    I have an appointment with my oncologist on Monday so I will be bringing this up and push for a full body bone scan to put my fears to rest.  I can't help but let the mets dragon rear his head when I ache.   

  • Barbie7
    Barbie7 Member Posts: 126
    edited June 2009

    Hello riders.  I'm back on the train after my one month break.  The break was nice, but it was mostly meant to help me sort out what is due to Tamox, and what might be coincidental.  What I've determined - in my case - is that Tamoxifen is either causing, or making worse, some of my more troubling SE's.  I have my next Onc.appt. in early July.  It all comes down to QoL, and I've decided to stay on the train for as long as I can.  Some days are bad, really bad, and others are quite manageable.  When the horrible days begin to outweigh the good ones, then it is time to make another decision.

    Frankly, I'm just not psychologically ready to stop the train.

    I know there are a lot of new riders - welcome to the train!  I haven't had time to catch up on all the posts, but I hope to read them soon.

    Barbie

  • Makratz
    Makratz Member Posts: 1,605
    edited June 2009

    Good for you Barbie!!  Welcome back!

  • susan13
    susan13 Member Posts: 102
    edited June 2009

    Just got my script today from my onc.  I specifically asked for a 90 day supply so I don't have to run once a month to the pharmacy... so done with that!  Soooo what happens when I go to pick up the prescrip?  They tell me my insurance company only allows a 30 day supply of tamox.... what the heck is that all about? anyone else have this issue?  So now I have to pay more... is that what it's all about?  aghs.  Over the last 10 months I have visited the pharmacy once a week and I am soooooo darned tired of it, I thought every 3 months would be so nice. NOT.

  • lmays
    lmays Member Posts: 23
    edited June 2009

    susan13 - same thing happened to me.  30-day supply only, unless I want to do mail order from insurance company.