Hormone Therapy

Tests are routinely done on breast cancer cells to decide if the cancer is "sensitive" to natural hormones (estrogen or progesterone) in the body. If the tests find that the cancer is "positive," it means that cancer cells may grow when these hormones are present in a tumor. You may be given a hormone blocker (a drug called tamoxifen) that will prevent your body's natural hormones from reaching the cancer. These drugs are taken daily in pill form.

Possible problems: Hot flashes, nausea, vaginal spotting. Less common side effects include depression, vaginal itching, bleeding or discharge, loss of appetite, headache, and weight gain. Studies show that there is a slight increased risk of uterine cancer and blood clots for women on this drug. You should have an annual pelvic exam and notify your doctor if you are taking tamoxifen.

Adapted from "A Woman's Guide To Breast Cancer Diagnosis And Treatment" published by the California Department of Health Services and "The Breast Buddy Volunteer Training Curriculum", published by WIN Against Breast Cancer.

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Last Updated: 06/01/2004

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