Addressing Tamoxifen-Associated Weight Gain: Lifestyle and Pharmacotherapy Options

Tamoxifen is commonly prescribed in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer but also associated with weight gain, which can complicate survivorship care. This narrative review summarizes evidence on tamoxifen-associated weight gain and outlines pharmacologic weight management options in this population.

By
Latonya Fore-Williams
Michele Distler
May 13, 2026
13 min

Jadpro

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Tamoxifen is a standard treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, reducing recurrence risk by 40% and mortality by 30%.
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Weight gain during tamoxifen therapy affects 39% to 61% of women, with significant increases noted in those with lower initial fat mass.
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Tamoxifen may disrupt appetite regulation and lipid metabolism, contributing to weight gain and increased fat storage.
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Guidelines recommend lifestyle interventions for weight management in cancer survivors, with pharmacologic options for those with higher BMI.
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GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and liraglutide can aid weight loss, but may exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms associated with tamoxifen.

Addressing Tamoxifen-Associated Weight Gain: Lifestyle and Pharmacotherapy Options

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Original Source(s)

Addressing Tamoxifen-Associated Weight Gain: Lifestyle and Pharmacotherapy Options

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