Ask the doctor. I've been taking tamoxifen for several months after completing treatment for breast cancer. My doctor prescribed it primarily to lower my risk of developing cancer in my unaffected breast. As a result of chemotherapy, I underwent menopause abruptly. Tamoxifen has worsened my symptoms, especially hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Other than stopping the tamoxifen, are there ways to deal with the side effects?