Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer: What You Need to Know About How It Works and Its Side Effects
Introduction
In many men with prostate cancer, the tumor grows under the influence of the male hormone testosterone. Hormone therapy, also known as hormone treatment, can then be an important step in slowing the growth of cancer cells. This treatment can be used as part of a curative treatment plan or in cases of metastatic disease to slow the progression of the disease and reduce symptoms. Mauro Medical Specialists offers independent guidance, so you can take your time to consider whether and how hormone therapy is appropriate for your situation.
How does hormone therapy work for prostate cancer?
Hormone therapy aims to reduce the production or effects of testosterone. There are several ways to achieve this:
Medication (LHRH agonists or antagonists): These drugs inhibit testosterone production in the testicles.
Antiandrogens: medications that block the effects of testosterone on cancer cells.
Orchiectomy (surgical removal of the testicles): a permanent surgical procedure that significantly reduces testosterone production.
By lowering or blocking testosterone levels, prostate cancer cells receive fewer growth signals. While this therapy cannot cure the disease, it can slow its progression and alleviate symptoms.
When is hormone therapy used?
The doctor may recommend hormone therapy at various stages of the treatment process:
In combination with radiation therapy: to enhance the effectiveness of radiation treatment, especially in cases of locally advanced tumors.
For metastatic prostate cancer: to slow the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms.
After previous treatments: if the cancer returns or progresses, hormone therapy may be restarted or used as an adjunct treatment.
Mauro can help you understand in which situations hormone therapy might be beneficial for you and which combination of treatments best suits your personal needs.
Possible side effects and how to deal with them
Lowering testosterone levels can cause various side effects. Common symptoms include hot flashes, weight gain, decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, osteoporosis, and fatigue. Some men experience mood swings.
Our specialists take the time to discuss these side effects and offer advice on lifestyle, nutrition, and any additional treatments, such as bone-protecting medication. This helps you stay as fit and energetic as possible during treatment. We also assess whether hormone therapy is right for you or if you might prefer a different treatment option.
Lifestyle and support during treatment
A healthy lifestyle can help minimize the effects of hormone therapy. Regular exercise, strength training, a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and calcium, and limiting alcohol consumption all help preserve muscle and bone mass.
Mauro offers support that goes beyond medical advice alone. We take a holistic approach, considering your health, well-being, and personal goals. Sessions can take place at our practice, or at your home if you prefer.
Mauro’s role: providing independent advice on important decisions
Starting hormone therapy often raises questions: which treatments are right for me, how will this affect my daily life, and how long will the treatment last? Mauro Medical Specialists provides independent guidance before, during, and after your treatment, helping you make informed decisions. You remain in control; we provide medical expertise and ongoing support.
Meet our specialists
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Diederik Visser
Director & Co-founder
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Leonard Bokhorst
Radiation Oncologist & Co-founder
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Max Peters
Radiation oncologist
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Tanja Oostergo
Medical Oncologist
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Berdine Heesterman
Medical Scientific Advisor
Read more about cancer here
Frequently Asked Questions About Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer
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No, hormone therapy does not cure the disease, but it can slow the growth of cancer cells over the long term and alleviate symptoms.
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That depends on the situation. Sometimes treatment is given for a few months in combination with radiation therapy; in other cases, it is a long-term or even lifelong therapy.
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Common side effects include hot flashes, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, and loss of muscle mass.
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Yes, regular exercise and strength training are actually recommended to prevent muscle and bone loss and reduce fatigue.
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Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease. Sometimes hormone therapy is combined with other treatments, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or new targeted drugs. Your doctor can discuss the best options with you.
Would you like personalized advice regarding your situation?
Please feel free to contact us to schedule an introductory meeting. We’ll listen to your needs, work with you to find the best solutions, and guide you every step of the way.