Online community policies and announcements
posted by Rolexwatch1
29 September 2020

Hair loss and tamoxifen

Last reply: 03 December 2020 23:45

Hi I am on tamoxifen 5yrs and I’m really losing my hair, I will be on tamoxifen for another few yrs., has anyone had this problem, and something worked for you

3 comments

Comments

commented by Cancer Nurse
05 October 2020

05 October 2020 11:41

Hi Rolexwatch1,

Thanks for posting, I hope you are keeping well otherwise after your treatment and while taking tamoxifen.  Unfortunately hair loss may be a side effect from tamoxifen that can cause huge distress. 

I have linked to our website with information about coping with hairloss, there is some practical information and advice on coping with this side effect.  Minoxidil is a hair and scalp treatment available in most pharmacies that is safe and effective that may help with hair loss from Tamoxifen.  We would also suggest to have a chat with your breast care nurse about what is happening as they may be able to offer some advice. 

Please do not hesitate to contact our support line on 1800 200 700 if you would like to speak with a cancer nurse for any support or advice.

Kind regards,

Cancer nurse.

commented by Gemini
15 October 2020

15 October 2020 23:17

Hi rolexwatch1, I know how you feel I have the same problem with my hair. I’ve been on Tamoxifen for 12 months (previously on Letrozole for 8 months) and my hair is awful, very very thin on my crown/top of head and its really depressing. I have tried Nioxin shampoo, conditioner and pump liquid but it hasn’t so far made any big changes but I’ll persevere for another while as they say give it 3 months. I’m hoping (Covid depending) to see my oncologist at the end of the month and will ask him if a different inhibitor would be better or if something can help with my hair. I know exactly how you feel. I use dry shampoo to fill in the gaps on my head which helps. I’ve even thought of shaving my head and try wearing a wig but it’s so hot with the awful flushes from tamoxifen. Great thing this breast cancer eh!! But we’ll be fine once we have our health. I’ll let you know if anything improves here or if I hear anything from the doc. Stay safe and strong 💪 x

commented by lovenurse
03 December 2020

03 December 2020 23:45

Hi Rolexwatch1, how are you, hope you are staying safe, I really feel your concern. I want to share with you the shampoo my husband was using by the way my husband had a very thin hair during his radiotherapy but his hair did come back after the treatment in less than a month, i even cut his hair few times already, at the moment his having chemo, no hair loss and his hair is growing very healthy.

© Irish Cancer Society 1999-2024 All Rights Reserved

Irish Cancer Society Head office, 43/45 Northumberland Road Dublin, D04 VX65; Charity Regulatory Authority No. 20009502; Revenue Number CHY5863; Company Number 20868.