In this article, Dr. David B. Samadi explains how hormone therapy works, when it’s used, and the pros and cons every patient should understand.
What Is Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer growth is fueled by testosterone, a male hormone (also called an androgen). Hormone therapy—also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)—works by:
- Lowering testosterone levels in the body
- Blocking testosterone receptors on cancer cells
- Slowing or stopping cancer growth
It doesn’t cure prostate cancer, but it can shrink tumors, slow progression, and relieve symptoms, especially when combined with other treatments.
When Is Hormone Therapy Used?
Hormone therapy is typically recommended in the following situations:
- Advanced or metastatic prostate cancer (spread beyond the prostate)
- High-risk localized cancer (to enhance surgery or radiation)
- Rising PSA after treatment (biochemical recurrence)
- Patients who can’t undergo surgery or radiation
Types of Hormone Therapy
1. LHRH Agonists and Antagonists
Medications like Lupron, Eligard, or Firmagon reduce testosterone production from the testicles. These are often administered as injections every 1–6 months.
2. Anti-Androgens
Drugs like Casodex (bicalutamide) block testosterone from attaching to cancer cells. Often used in combination with LHRH drugs.
3. Orchiectomy
Surgical removal of the testicles—rarely used today due to effective medical alternatives.
Pros of Hormone Therapy
✅ Slows Cancer Growth
Helps control prostate cancer, especially when it has spread or returned after treatment.
✅ Improves Survival in Advanced Cases
When combined with radiation or used in metastatic cancer, hormone therapy extends life expectancy.
✅ Reduces Symptoms
Can relieve bone pain and urinary issues caused by cancer spread.
✅ Non-Invasive
Typically administered as injections or pills—no surgery or hospitalization required.
Cons of Hormone Therapy
Despite its benefits, hormone therapy comes with potential side effects due to reduced testosterone levels:
❌ Hot Flashes and Fatigue
Common in men undergoing long-term treatment.
❌ Loss of Libido and Erectile Dysfunction
Sexual side effects are common and may persist after therapy ends.
❌ Weight Gain and Muscle Loss
Decreased metabolism and reduced muscle mass may occur.
❌ Bone Thinning (Osteoporosis)
Increased risk of fractures over time—may require bone density monitoring and supplements.
❌ Mood Changes or Depression
Some men report emotional changes during treatment.
Dr. Samadi helps patients manage these side effects through lifestyle strategies, medication adjustments, and supportive care.
How Long Do You Stay on Hormone Therapy?
Treatment duration depends on your diagnosis and response to therapy. Options include:
- Short-term therapy (4–6 months): Often used with radiation for high-risk localized cancer
- Intermittent therapy: Periods on and off treatment to minimize side effects
- Long-term therapy (2–3 years or more): For advanced or recurrent cancer
Is Hormone Therapy Right for You?
Hormone therapy is not typically used for early-stage, low-risk cancer. However, it can be lifesaving in advanced cases and help patients:
- Delay disease progression
- Improve symptoms
- Extend survival time
Dr. Samadi evaluates your PSA levels, Gleason score, age, and health status to determine if hormone therapy is appropriate—and what combination of treatments will work best.
Trust Your Prostate Cancer Care to Dr. David Samadi
With decades of experience and a personalized approach, Dr. Samadi helps patients make informed, confident decisions about prostate cancer treatment—including when to use hormone therapy, and how to minimize its side effects.
Get Expert Guidance on Your Treatment Options
If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer and want to understand whether hormone therapy is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Samadi today.
Book your appointment now
Call: 212-365-5000
212-365-5000