Tamoxifen: Yes or No?

[Debra]

I am 41-diagnosed at 40. Was 19% ER+ and 20% PR+. I had a total hysterectomy in December and I am still on tamoxifin. I too am confused if I should be. Both my oncologists recommend to stay on tamoxifin for a total of one year for sure if not two, then switch to an AI. I feel like I should switch having had the hyst. but am quite confused as well.

I am also concerned about bone loss etc. Tamoxifin actually helps your bones whereas AI's decrease bone density from what I am told. I do believe age plays a big factor. I don't have any estrogen anymore anyways so I am already taking that risk so I think I should be on an AI. I would guess tamoxifin is what your docs are leaning towards due to your age. The difficult part is all the studies don't take everything into consideration that we do!

[Jackie]

I am 48 and on Tamoxifen. I was pre-menopause before chemo. I feel like I and post menopause now. Haven't had hormone tests to confirm, but no periods for 21 months. I asked my onc about switching to AI and he said he wanted me to stay on Tamoxifen for 2 years then switch to AI. I'm sure bone loss is a concern since I am osteopenia in my hips already (was a year ago after completing chemo) and AIs don't protect that like Tamoxifen.