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Bone and joint pain after tamoxifen

sweetpeaj
sweetpeaj Posts: 6
in Pain

I concluded my 5 year regimen of Tamoxifen in August 2024. While taking Tamoxifen, I had terrible bone and joint pain in my lower extremities that was only alleviated by strong pain killers. I was delighted to reach my 5 year mark, stop taking the pain killers, and remain cancer free! However this bone and joint pain persists and it’s been nearly 5 months since my last dose of Tamoxifen. Is this normal?

In addition to exercise, massage, drinking tons of water, and moist heat application, what can I do? Has anyone else experienced the continuous bone aches after being off Tamoxifen for months? I’m fearful that this is my life now. I take extra strength Tylenol and 600 mg of ibuprofen twice daily and I’m not getting relief. Is this normal? I’m worried about talking to my doctor about this as I don’t want to be labeled a “drug seeker” and wish to understand the root cause of this pain.

Can anyone relate? And if so, how did you progress?

Much appreciated!

Comments

  • justbreath123
    justbreath123 Posts: 13

    Hi Sweetpeaj

    Did you ever find out what was causing pain in your lower extremities?
    Has the pain resolved?

  • justbreath123
    justbreath123 Posts: 13

    I’m having the same issue

  • gypsy11995544
    gypsy11995544 Posts: 10

    I have had this both arms and legs for many years, even before my surgery or treatment for ilc<><> Hopefully it will be noted when they decide which drug I will get. I have found that menthol type gel or Tiger balm type stuff helps a lot, even the cheap ones from dollar store:)> I put it on before bed.

  • bailey05
    bailey05 Posts: 1

    i finished taking Tamoxifen a month ago and my joint pain is worse than when I was on it.

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 10,640

    @bailey05 Welcome to our community! We're so sorry about the joint pain - were you possibly taking anything like Claritin while on tamoxifen to help with joint pain, and then stopped when the tamoxifen stopped?

    Have you talked to your oncologist or GP about your bone and joint pain?

    You might find this article helpful to help manage this:

    https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/pain/bone-joint

    Tell us a little more about your story and we can try to help!

    —The Mods

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