Hormone Therapy:
Lowering Androgens to Control Prostate Cancer

Hormone therapy, also called androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), reduces the levels of male hormones or blocks their action. Because many prostate cancers rely on androgens like testosterone, lowering them can slow or stop cancer growth.

How Hormone Therapy Works

  • LHRH agonists and antagonists: medicines that stop the testicles from making testosterone
  • Anti-androgens: pills that block testosterone from attaching to cancer cells
  • Surgical castration (orchiectomy): removal of the testicles

When It’s Used

  • Advanced or metastatic prostate cancer
  • High-risk localized cancer (often with radiation)
  • Cancer that has returned after initial treatment
  • To shrink the prostate before radiation in some cases

Benefits

  • Can shrink or slow the growth of prostate cancer
  • May relieve symptoms in advanced disease
  • Can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments like radiation

Risks and Side Effects

  • Hot flashes
  • Loss of libido and erectile dysfunction
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain and loss of muscle mass
  • Bone thinning (osteoporosis)
  • Mood changes or depression
  • Increased risk of diabetes and heart disease

Some advanced techniques may reduce certain risks, but side effects can still occur.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

  • Which hormone therapy do you recommend for me, and why?
  • How long will I need to be on hormone therapy?
  • What side effects should I expect, and how can they be managed?
  • How will hormone therapy interact with my other treatments?
  • What steps can I take to protect my bones, heart, and overall health while on therapy?

Recovery

Hospital stay is often 1–2 days, with catheter use for 1–2 weeks. Full recovery may take weeks to months.

Trusted Resources & Further Reading

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider, such as a physician or urologist, about your personal care. Ask questions, seek multiple opinions if needed, and make decisions in partnership with your medical team.