I am 54 yrs old and still premenopausal. I am currently taking Tamoxifen and have spoken to my onc numerous times about the benefits of AIs over Tamoxifen for HER2+ patients. While she would support me if I decided to push myself into menopause to switch to an AI, she always says that all the data is not in and she is not 100% convinced that there is a clear benefit. I attended a conference a few months back and asked the same question of a breast cancer oncologist who was presenting. He stated the same thing, basically saying that while there is an "indication" that there may be a benefit, again, all the data is not in. He did not seem to support forcing the body into menopause stating that when that is done so many other issues can arise. The new national guidelines (I know that is a hot button to some) clearly state that Tamoxifen is still the best option for the premenopausal patient - it even mentions the HER2 population.

So, for now, I am waiting for my body to naturally go into menopause. I trust my onc and know that for now this is what is right for me. I keep my eye on the research and will continue to have my levels tested and know that if and when the research shows overwhelmingly the benefits of switching I will do so with my onc's blessing.

Gerri,
I'm in your shoes....same conversation with onc, same advice given.....I am 38 though so natural menopause is probably a bit later for me. I wish I knew the answer to this questions too.

what to expect re; tamoxifen
 

here's my question, i will be starting herceptin in feb...should i expect to be started on tamoxifen at the same time...should i want to be on something at the same time as herceptin? I'm prem (42yr), triple pos and have just about finished my chemo. what do you think they'll recom they are telling me its to so to do a ooph. thanks
suzanne

YOu won't start tamox until your finished with all chemo. You can take tamox and herceptin at the same time though. Just not with chemo or rads as far as I know.