Yes, this is something others have explored! A MyBCTeam member has asked about adjusting tamoxifen doses due to side effects, and there's actually some promising research on this topic.
A study looked at a 5mg daily dose of tamoxifen and found it was just as effective as the standard 20mg dose at preventing breast cancer Show Full Answer
Yes, this is something others have explored! A MyBCTeam member has asked about adjusting tamoxifen doses due to side effects, and there's actually some promising research on this topic.
A study looked at a 5mg daily dose of tamoxifen and found it was just as effective as the standard 20mg dose at preventing breast cancer recurrence. Even better, the side effect rate at the lower dose was significantly less than with the standard dose. At the lower dose, serious side effects like blood clots were also comparable to a placebo, which is encouraging. However, some experts note that more long-term data is still needed before lower doses become standard practice.
The most important thing is to never adjust your dose on your own. Always talk to your oncologist first. They can help weigh the risks and benefits and may suggest strategies like:
- Adjusting your current dose
- Switching to an aromatase inhibitor
- Finding ways to better manage your side effects
Your care team wants to help you stay on treatment safely — so don't hesitate to bring this up at your next appointment!
June 29
I was in tamoxifen during my first round of breast cancer in 2009. I had terrible pain in my hands. This tine (2026) different type of breast cancer and I told my oncologist I did not do well on tamoxifen so she put me in exemestane which caused leg pain and leg cramps. She switched me to Anastrozole and I am not having side effects from it. I’m also on Verzenio to shrink the cancer before surgery. I hope this helps.
July 1