Hormone Therapy for Bladder Cancer
How Does Hormone Therapy Work?
Hormone therapy works by blocking the production of hormones or by blocking the action of hormones on cancer cells. It is used to treat bladder cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or has come back after treatment.
Types of Hormone Therapy
There are several types of hormone therapy that may be used to treat bladder cancer:
- Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH) Agonists: These medications work by decreasing the production of testosterone, which can slow the growth of cancer cells.
- Anti-Androgens: These medications block the action of testosterone on cancer cells.
- Estrogen Receptor Antagonists: These medications block the action of estrogen on cancer cells.
- Progestin: This medication blocks the action of progesterone on cancer cells.
Side Effects of Hormone Therapy
Like all cancer treatments, hormone therapy can have side effects. The side effects of hormone therapy depend on the type of medication used and may include:
- Hot flashes
- Decreased sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Loss of muscle mass
- Depression
Pros and Cons of Hormone Therapy
Like all cancer treatments, hormone therapy has both pros and cons. Some of the pros of hormone therapy include:
- It can slow the growth of cancer cells
- It can shrink tumors
- It can be used to treat cancer that has spread to other parts of the body
Some of the cons of hormone therapy include:
- It can have side effects
- It may not work for everyone
- It may not be a permanent cure for cancer
FAQs
What is bladder cancer?
Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that affects the bladder, which is a hollow organ located in the pelvis that stores urine.
How common is bladder cancer?
Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the ninth most common cancer in women.
What is hormone therapy?
Hormone therapy is a treatment option for bladder cancer that involves the use of medications that affect the hormones in the body.
What are the side effects of hormone therapy?
The side effects of hormone therapy depend on the type of medication used and may include hot flashes, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, loss of muscle mass, and depression.
