Some types of breast cancer rely on estrogen to grow and develop. Tamoxifen is a drug that blocks the effect of estrogen on certain tumors, preventing any further growth, according to Drugs.com. BreastCancer.org adds that this drug is very effective in preventing the recurrence of breast cancer that's receptive to estrogen; however, the drug does have some potential side effects.
Hot Flashes
One of the most common symptoms, occurring in up to 80 percent of women taking tamoxifen in clinical trials, are hot flashes, according to eMedTV. Hot flashes cause some women to experience a sudden feeling of heat in the upper part of their body, while other women experience this feeling all over their body. The neck and face become flushed, and blotches of red can appear on the chest, back and arms. These hot flashes can last between 30 seconds and 10 minutes, and range from mild to severe.
Ways to cope with this side effect include going to a cool area when a hot flash begins, drinking something cool, and/or dressing in layers of clothing which enables the sufferer to remove extra layers and cool off when she becomes too warm.
Water Retention
Water retention may also occur and result in a swelling of the hands and feet, a condition known as edema. Chemocare.com reports that this side effect occurs in more than 30 percent of patients taking this drug, and suggests elevating the feet as much as possible to help reduce the swelling. The website goes on to recommend keeping the legs uncrossed, avoid standing for long periods of time and reduce salt intake, as sodium increases the amount of fluid the body retains. Patients should weight themselves daily. If their weight increases by 5 lbs. or more, they need to contact their doctor.
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is another side effect of tamoxifen, according to BreastCancer.org. One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy, as Chemocare.com explains, vaginal dryness can make sexual intercourse painful. To combat this, patients should use a water-based lubricant or vaginal moisturizer. The moisturizer can only be used three times a week. Should the lubricants prove unsuccessful, patients should speak to a doctor and explore any other options that might be available.
Loss of Sex Drive
BreastCancer.org states that loss of sex drive is another potential side effect of tamoxifen. This may be due to one of the other side effects, such as nausea or vaginal dryness, or it may simply occur due to the medication itself. It may help if the patient talks to her partner about how she feels. If nausea is the problem, Chemocare.com suggests taking an anti-nausea medication 30 minutes to one hour prior to intercourse. Joining a support group may also help, as others experiencing some of the same problems can help provide advice and guidance through this difficult time.
