A breast cancer survivor, I am now experiencing terrible menopausal symptoms. Would Amberen be a safe alternative for relief?

	Asked by jlgpag (Female; 48; I am 7 years out ofStage II invasive ductal carcinoma. I first had a lumpectomy with clear margins (2cm tumor). It was ER/PR positive. 6 rounds of chemotherapy, and a double mastectomy. No lymph nodes were involved. I was put on Tamoxifen. I could only stand it for 3 years. I was suffering very frequent horrible migraines. My doctor took me off the Tamoxifen, migraines are mostly gone. I was 41 when diagnosed; Relevant drugs:Is Amberen right for me? ) on Sat 17, Jul 2010 08:30am :
	.During chemotherapy, I experienced temporary menopause. But started regular periods again a year later. Now, I have missed my period for about 8 months. I have severe menopausal symptoms - 30-40 hot flashes a day, night sweats, abdominal weight gain. I've read about Amberen as a possible naturally alternative to HRT (which I obviously cannot consider). What do you think about the use of Amberen in my case?
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	Answer by bobby s, md (oncologist) on Sun 18, Jul 2010 12:53am: Hello, The first step should be to determine your true menopausal status. For this, you should consult your doctor, who may order tests including blood levels of some hormones (estrogens, FSH, LH) to confirm if you are indeed post-menopausal. In parallel, your doctor would like to decrease the symptoms you are currently facing. I am not able to specifically comment on the product mentioned by you. I have not used it on my patients. The gynecologist in your hospital will definitely be able to help you, and to tailor therapy according to your clinical history. Additionally, you must continue to be on follow-up with your medical oncologist. All the best, and God Bless! Please rate my answer (select the stars below, no need to log in.)
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