After a long period of this suspended animation, the cancer cells may die. Tamoxifen may even cause breast cancer cells to destroy themselves, a process called apoptosis, or programmed cell death. I admit to being confused and disappointed when my surgeon announced gleefully that my cancer was highly sensitive to hormone stimulation, as indicated by a test for estrogen and progesterone receptors on the cancer cells. To me that meant I would probably never again be able to take postmenopausal hormones. Five benefits of tamoxifen Tamoxifen can prevent recurrence.
Tamoxifen can halt the progression of metastatic breast cancer.
Tamoxifen can reduce your risk of cancer in the other breast. Tamoxifen can help prevent osteoporosis. Tamoxifen can lower cholesterol levels.