Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer

Table of Contents

Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer among men, and it affects the prostate gland, which is a small gland located in the pelvis. Hormone therapy is one of the treatment options available for prostate cancer. This therapy is also known as androgen deprivation therapy or ADT. It works by reducing the levels of androgens in the body, which are male hormones that can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy is used to slow down or stop the growth of prostate cancer in men.
Hormone Therapy For Prostate Cancer

How Hormone Therapy Works

Hormone therapy works by reducing the levels of androgens in the body. Androgens are male hormones that can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells. Hormone therapy can be done in several ways, including:

  • Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists
  • LHRH antagonists
  • Anti-androgens

LHRH agonists and antagonists work by reducing the amount of testosterone produced by the testicles. Testosterone is a male hormone that stimulates the growth of prostate cancer cells. Anti-androgens work by blocking the action of androgens in the body.

Types of Hormone Therapy

There are two types of hormone therapy:

  • Neoadjuvant hormone therapy: This type of hormone therapy is given before other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy. It is used to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove or treat.
  • Adjuvant hormone therapy: This type of hormone therapy is given after other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy. It is used to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back.

Side Effects of Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy can cause side effects, including:

  • Hot flashes
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Impotence
  • Weight gain
  • Breast enlargement or tenderness
  • Fatigue
  • Depression

These side effects can vary depending on the type of hormone therapy used and the duration of treatment. It is important to discuss the potential side effects with your doctor before starting hormone therapy.

FAQ

What is hormone therapy?

Hormone therapy is a type of treatment for prostate cancer that works by reducing the levels of androgens in the body.

How does hormone therapy work?

Hormone therapy works by reducing the amount of testosterone produced by the testicles. Testosterone is a male hormone that stimulates the growth of prostate cancer cells.

What are the side effects of hormone therapy?

Hormone therapy can cause side effects, including hot flashes, loss of sex drive, impotence, weight gain, breast enlargement or tenderness, fatigue, and depression.

What are the types of hormone therapy?

There are two types of hormone therapy: neoadjuvant hormone therapy and adjuvant hormone therapy.

Conclusion

Hormone therapy is a treatment option for prostate cancer that works by reducing the levels of androgens in the body. It can be done in several ways and has the potential to cause side effects. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of hormone therapy with your doctor before starting treatment.