What side effects should I expect from taking tamoxifen?
The most common side effect is hot flashes, similar to those experienced during menopause. Tamoxifen may induce menopause in a woman who is close to menopause, however, it rarely does in young women. Other common side effects include vaginal dryness, irregular periods, and weight gain. In addition, women taking tamoxifen may be at slightly increased risk of developing cataracts. Women who have cataracts before taking tamoxifen may be at slightly increased risk of having eye surgery to remove the cataracts. There has NOT been a generalized decrease in vision in women taking tamoxifen. It is recommended that women taking tamoxifen have eye examinations by an ophthalmologist at least every 2 years.
