Reducing Side Effects of Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer | Prostate Cancer Staging Guide

PCRI’s Executive Director, Mark Scholz, MD, discusses common side effects that men experience while undergoing hormone blockade and their treatments.
1:50 The most important side effects to be aware of while on hormone therapy (TIP) are the loss of muscle mass and fatigue. Without testosterone, some men will experience the loss of around 30-40% of their muscle mass and thus will experience intense fatigue. These side effects are manageable through weight training 2-3 times per week, and some men may even gain muscle mass while on hormone blockade if they are consistent with their weight training.
3:28 While taking TIP men will experience a drop in their metabolic rate and if a man keeps the same diet as before the TIP then he will most likely gain weight. Therefore, men should consider lowering their caloric intake in anticipation of and during hormone blockade.
3:58 The loss of interest in sexual activity is a notable but temporary side effect while on TIP. Men might be able to perform as they normally would with the use of medications like Viagra and Cialis; however, men will experience a loss of the desire to have sex for the duration of the hormone blockade and a short time afterward.
4:46 Breast enlargement occurs in around 33%-50% of men on hormone blockade depending on the specific medicine. Once enlargement occurs, it is only treatable with plastic surgery. However, there are preventative measures a man can take to prevent breast enlargement before it happens. One is to take an estrogen-blocking pill called Femara. There are no side effects for men. Another is to have radiation treatments to the nipple area prior to hormone blockade. Men who are uncompromising about breast growth may consider both preventative options.
6:04 While not dangerous hot flashes are an uncomfortable and intrusive symptom of TIP. Luckily, it can be treated effectively. Perhaps the most effective treatment is a small dose of estrogen delivered by a patch. Other less effective treatment options are the use of Effexor (an antidepressant) or Neurontin (typically used for peripheral neuropathy for seizures).
7:06 Men taking TIP may begin to experience a greater range of emotions than before treatment. While some welcome this change, others may find it intense and uncomfortable. For those men a medication like Effexor is effective for stabilizing their mood.
7:48 The side effects of TIP may show up as laboratory abnormalities that are important to be aware of especially when talking with a doctor who is unaware of the side effects of TIP. For example, men on testosterone blockade will see a usually inconsequential drop in their red blood cell count (but may result in fatigue in extreme cases) that may appear as something more serious to your doctor.
8:35 There are some TIP (esp. Zytiga, Casodex) that cause liver irritation in certain men. Thus, it is important to have blood work done periodically (especially at the beginning of treatment) to ensure that there is no irritation of the liver. If there is, then that medicine must be stopped immediately.
9:01 High blood pressure has been observed as a side effect in 10-20% of men who are using second-generation TIP (e.g. Zytiga, Xtandi). It can usually be treated with typical blood pressure medicines. If the high blood pressure is too severe, however, then treatment with that medication may need to be stopped.
9:31 Osteoporosis, or loss of calcium in their bones, is another possible side effect for men on hormone blockade.
Who we are:
The Prostate Cancer Research Institute (PCRI) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to helping you research your treatment options. We understand that you have many questions, and we can help you find the answers that are specific to your case. All of our resources are designed by a multidisciplinary team of advocates and expert physicians, for patients. We believe that by educating yourself about the disease, you will have more productive interactions with your medical professionals and receive better individualized care. Feel free to explore our website or call our free helpline at 1 [phone] with any question that you have. Our Federal Tax ID # is 95-4617875 and qualifies for maximum charitable gift deductions by individual donors.
The information on the Prostate Cancer Research Institute's KZbin channel is provided with the understanding that the Institute is not engaged in rendering medical advice or recommendation. The information provided in these videos should not replace consultations with qualified health care professionals to meet your individual medical needs.
#ProstateCancer #Prostate #MarkScholzMD

[@sweetea7035]

All of it's horrible!!! My husband had been on Lupron for a couple years. He had continuous hot flashes, had the breast enlargement, testicles shrunk to nothing, cried at the drop of a hat ...he had radiation and we've had a couple good years, but now his numbers are going back up. We go tomorrow to see what the future holds. Most men just cannot handle turning into these androgenous beings they don't recognize. So sad. It's hard being the wife and not knowing how to help or what the future holds. 😢 I hate you cancer .

[@2GreenEnergyLLC]

So sorry for what you're going through. On ADT I so desperately wanted to kill myself. My wife, now my roommate, felt bad for me. If it weren't for her and other loved ones, I would have happily blown my brains out to escape the torture.

[@robwells230]

I totally agree. I refused any further chemical castration injections after the first six month shot expired. Totally destroying my quality of life and turned me into another ZOMBIE EUNUCH CREATED BY THE NARCO MEDICO CARTEL. And the worst thing is that my testosterone remains well below castrate level, even months after the ELIGARD shot expired . And I was never warned that this toxic medication could well leave me castrated for life. Ramming this crap down my throat without full disclosure and consent is MEDICAL MALPRACTICE

[@Vincent50]

I’ll soon be starting this but i am going to have the upper hand with this. Changing diet and working out too. I refuse this to take me down.

[@sweetea7035]

@@Vincent50 good for you. I think you'll find strength you never knew you had.

[@simmomantua8910]

​@@Vincent50I just started this hormone treatment 3 weeks ago so far no side effects I watch my diet eat low carb you'll be fine

[@georgekalil887]

That was incredibly helpful. I can't express enough gratitude as I couldn't understand why I was so tired and lifeless when I hadn't done anything. Kudos to you Dr Scholz for posting these enormously insightful videos.

[@alanblanes2876]

I agree and I hope Dr Scholz can get into the drug that aids apoptosis - training the cancer cells to learn how to die. This drug is Fenbendazole and I don't know why it is not more commonly known.

[@clevelog]

Thank you for the excellent explanation. I have been on Apalutamide and Trentorelin for over two years. The muscle loss is evident. Now my hypothyroidism has flared. I still manage to work. My social life has come to a standstill (libido). Thank you again. You are a physician who really understands.

[@williamgrant8761]

Thanks, my understanding future options has made me less troubled.

[@stephenestall9044]

I hate hormone therapy! I'm very sorry I agreed to this treatment in the first place. Two years of this in my late seventies is doing more harm than good I'm sure.

[@cwalker3783]

What has happened to you? I am very interested. I am 58 and I just took my first Casodex. In 2 weeks, I am getting my first injection of Zoladex. I am a Gleason 9, metastatic I am scared as hell. I have studied for weeks, I consulted with my nephew who is an oncologist. There is no way around it. This is what brought me to this video.

[@cwalker3783]

Hang in there brother

[@christophergwala5531]

This is very hard and I'm sorry you're not seeing any progress. I wish you had a good talk with your team because they need to know EXACTLY what's happening to you. I'm speaking to you as a newly diagnosed 70 year old since January this year and in stage 4 w/metastasis. On hormone therapy since January and the psa level has gone down to zero - from 750. I wish you sat down with your team and not feel alone. Hang in there bro!

[@diksharathore5591]

@@christophergwala5531 what treatment did you take ? Please explain personally / give me your wp contact no.

[@robwells230]

I never agreed to ADT.. It was forced on me and I was never informed about ALL THE HORRIFIC SIDE EFFECTS.

[@marcobertoglio7729]

Thank you so much, next doctor appt I will have clear and informed questions to ask, thanks to your explanation of some of the symptoms I've been experiencing. Thank you for your knowledge and generosity!

[@tomswoverland]

I’ve been on Lupron for over 2 years and Abiraterone for over a year noticed the loss of muscle and of course the fatigue. If I don’t start doing something early in the morning I can be really lazy the rest of the day. Thanks for the video’s and I guess I need some weight training. Not the way I planned on retirement.

[@bhagmeister]

Thank you Dr. But I think you should cover as sell the long term - irreversible - affects of Hormone Blockade. Tissue breaks down.

[@dunbarrn]

Thanks for a well done presentation: Sounds like one will be on several meds with ADT since various side effects are also treated with meds.

[@jm-bv1wh]

Weight training at least 3 times per week for a half hour? I'm on Lupron, and it's taken away any motivation that I have to do anything, let alone weight training. I've changed my diet, and have still gained over 25 pounds. No mention of lethargy? We have testosterone for a reason, and you just can't take it way without causing problems. I've been on Lupron for a year, and am thinking about stopping it and taking my chances - who wants to live this way?

[@rhondapagan5759]

Hello sis, use Dr omo herbal medicine very active with no side effects it will help you get rid of them fast

[@Invictus888]

Take your chances! I had Zoladex injections 5 years ago and still suffer from the side effects. I've been lucky though....met a Japanese doctor on a beach in Vietnam, with whom I had long talks over dinner. The Testosterone story goes back to a single case in 1946, by a Dr, Huggins. All subsequent research is built on computer models, not in vivo. The Japanese have proven time and again that Estrogen and Estradiol are the culprits to cause prostate cancer, not Testosterone. Guess what my Asian doctors prescribe now? You guessed it....Testosterone! But I need to tell you that it's a long way ahead to feel normal again.

[@Invictus888]

@@rob_taylor7 Here is the problem....An Endocrinologist at St. Mike's hospital in Toronto (One of the 3 best hospitals in North America) put it to me this way: "I completely agree with you. What you are telling me has come up in many discussions among us. But I took my training in Canada. So I must adhere to my Canadian training". That says it all. Be well and all the best!

[@johnguyman5021]

@@rob_taylor7 I have read that too, younger Men with high Testosterone levels do no have prostate problems.Only older dudes get it when their T levels start to drop.

[@theburtons49]

Thank you for your comment i am experiencing the same symptoms has you are. I have just finished my last 3 monthly implant 3 months ago. My Radiation finished earlier this year. I still havent regained any interest in Sex , no Libido and my hormone is non existent. Can you tell me if or when will i get my sex drive back. Ive been on hormone blockade for 2 years. I am 73 years old but my wife is only 49 so its very important i regain my testesterone and libido. 12 months on from you posting your article . I hope you are feeling much better and your life is back to normal.

[@georgefitzhugh6455]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge

[@jamesnickel4748]

Great info. Thanks!

[@john-brady]

Another extraordinary tie!

[@briangriffith2394]

Thank you doctors for great information

[@carlarthur4442]

Thank you for the information.

[@monicawidjaja1]

thank you dr Scholz !!!!!!!!!!

[@pauldebacker9022]

Thank you for you time and trouble.

[@carollomax9524]

Thanks very helpful. I really appreciate this. It has explained a lot to us.

[@ladylu5375]

Thank you so much ! God bless you !!!

[@julietaavallone1667]

To me the choice is simple although hard, ADT is what is going to keep me alive longer. As the Dr. says, side effects "are" manageable to good extent. It takes a survival mindset to intensely workout almost daily. Just Do It!

[@olhead54]

I hate ADT. Finished 28 proton treatments in September. Had last of two ADT injections in October. Worked out 1 hour or more everyday before radiation treatments. Workout and cycle 6 days a week now. Doing everything I can to rumble these side effects. But like you said if it’s going to keep me around just do it.

[@robwells230]

Does ADT really keep you alive longer???? And if so, is it worth that extra few months when you have to suffer as just another ZOMBIE EUNUCH??? THose are precisely the questions that each patient needs accurate answers to, and only then he can give FREE AND FULLY INFORMED CONSENT to CASTRATION

[@julietaavallone1667]

Keep up the positive work, the studies are showing diet, exercise, and positive spiritual involvement are great therapy!

[@julietaavallone1667]

Sounds like a great plan! And yes intense activity reduces the side effects, Best wishes!

[@julietaavallone1667]

We all have to make our own decisions in our journey, I am getting off ADT and Abiraterone in 6 months which will be 2 years to see if I can get a durable remission and maybe better "cured"! I will still work out as hard as I can daily because I believe it has anti-cancer effect. Best Wishs

[@StellaandPeteyBulldogs]

Great video, thank you for this information. I feel like my urologist is way behind in knowledge.

[@mrcoolness7196]

I receive 45mg Eligard shots every 6 months. I have been on this program for 2 years. While I have lost 3 pounds, I experienced more fat around the middle and breast enlargement. I get tired easy, but I lift weights 4 times per week, ride my bicycle, use the Bowflex, and maintain a 2000 square foot garden. It is difficult. Still, I am hungry all of the time and eat like a horse. I am 73 years old.

[@positivechange2211]

wow I thought it was just me Thx for sharing

[@vladimirdolgov7706]

It is a very helpful video, thank you so much.

[@paulwasilewski4526]

Thanks for posting.

[@annetwardowskydidonato9390]

Incredible video! What about peripheral edema?

[@briangriffith2394]

Thank you Dr for all you do for people

[@tedrick4713]

Thank you.....!

[@jimbrew4529]

The doctor emphasizes rigorous commitment to work outs and maintaining muscle mass. No holidays. I'm better than most men in exercise commitment, but am human and worry about long term focus. Especially, if the drug causes fatigue to begin with.

[@ivork2373]

Dr Scholz, does use of Lupron cause inflammation on the joints?

[@russellaustin8453]

Wish you were my urologist - Mine gives me about a minute and barely looks at me ! Good video !

[@oldman9154]

Me. Too.

[@tdhawk7284]

Me three.

[@Peace-for-the-world]

Change the doctor

[@johnnyjames7139]

I fired my first urologist and am about to fire the second on too!

[@Steve-qd9vn]

It's like your an income source and nothing else. My guy is two minutes at most in meetings.

[@lamontnash686]

What about raised cpk level does the medicine cause that

[@andrehuyghe5826]

Dr. i was reading that soon a study and tests will start in Chicago to find out if 500 mg abiraterone per day could be sufficient to treat prostate cancer! what do you think about this? thanks. Andre huyghe, Belgium

[@guyshirra824]

Again, enormously helpful BUT I am angry that the importance of weight training was not emphasised to me. I was only advised to "eat more protein". With the onset of fatigue, I was unable to run my usual 6K every 3rd day. I have now been on hormone therapy (pills for a month only) and injection (first of three 6 monthly so far) for 4 months. I will NOW start using my rowing machine daily and hope that helps.

[@2GreenEnergyLLC]

Right. Maybe recently weight training is starting to be emphasized, but no one mentioned in in 2015 when I went through this. And being honest, I'm not sure if it would have made any difference. I could barely stand up, let alone go to a gym.

[@andrewjones2133]

Been dealing with Prostate Cancer on/off for 13 years now. Hang In there bro. I was diagnosed in 2010. Had a Radical Prostatectomy. Cancer came back a year later. Had radiation therapy for two months. Went into remission until I found out when I had my blood work done in January 2018. Did the watchful waiting and literally watched my PSA slowly rise throughout the years. Had a Pet Scan and MRI done last year in September. Found the cancer in a small tissue area in the pelvis area. I started taking the pill 💊 Orgovyx February 5th. So far I’ve been dealing with the side effects ok. I have to have a EKG done because apparently this medication effects the heart. My glucose levels went up slightly now I’m boarder line diabetic. I had sleep deprivation for 3 days last week. But now I can sleep a little better. Not to mention I also have sleep apnea. Not from the pills. Had it for years. Oh yeah. I had soreness in my testicles last week for 3 days. Now I’m god again. I’m seeing my primary doctor tomorrow. I start my second round of radiation therapy next month. I hope all goes well so I can finally eradicate this cancer. My PSA last tested in September 2022 was 0.38. GOD BLESS

[@dondon6655]

I wish the 'Mood Swing' side-effect had been explored more. The reality is that a small subset of men on hormone suppression have severe mood swings/breakdowns and become suicidal. Not even my oncologist knew this potential so was at a loss when I would crash and burn. I only discovered what was happening talking to other men that had the same issues with the drug. The sad part was that I couldn't stop the therapy, as it was implanted under the skin in the abdomen. The implants lasted for close to a year during which family and friends and colleagues blamed me for the behavior change. Of the hot flashes were so severe, 24/7, causing extreme sleep deprivation which made the mood swings even worse.

[@robwells230]

And the doctors parrot the bullshit big pharma sales propaganda and falsely assert that the side effects are generally well tolerated. ...They are NOT ADT is a cruel and barbaric treatment and often is not worth getting a few months of extra survival when your quality of life is reduced to suffering years as a ZOMBIE EUNUCH CREATED BY THE NARCO MEDICO CARTEL

[@Gord001ca]

I total get it hang in there. They tell me when it does wear off its like a second puberty. I can only hope!

[@OscarGonzalez-vg3cp]

Thanks Dr. Good info. 👍

[@williamgibson1685]

This doctor gives me hope , he is so honest , i hope i can video contact him one day

[@williamgibson1685]

Its ok better than dying , its ok ok if u accept thats the way it is

[@kennethward4985]

Ahhh no wonder my thick lifelong rock hard calves have shrunken. I had a catheter for almost 5 months and my legs, at age 64, got very weak. Now I realize the problem and Im slowly building up my walking. My Urologist was a week away from removing my prostrate, when luckily I found the right Oncologist and she Stopped that surgery and put me on Abitirone and chemo. Now feeling good and building up my strength. I learned more from KZbin videos than from any medical professional. I turned my diet to low carb since as soon as chemo ended my appetite came back with a vengeance, especially wanting carbs.

[@mememine69]

My prostate cancer treatments have enlarged my stomach and as a consequence the muscles in my back are very painful. What exercise can I do or is there even an exercise to do to strengthen my stomach muscles?

[@USARobert59]

I'm tired of being tired. I used to be a very active person, rarely watched TV. I went to the gym regularly and did other exercise. Now I am so tired I can barely walk. After a 20 minute walk I am exhausted. I am taking more and more naps during the day. The Hot Flashes are maybe 10-15 per day and during the night which disrupts my sleep greatly. Lack of sleep also contributes to my tiredness. How can I even gather enough strength to do weight training. I have gained so much weight I am embarrassed to even go out in public and since I walk like a 200 year old man I am not comfortable to be in public - I'm 63. I'm on Firmagon and taking Docetaxel injections together with prednisone. With all of these medicines causing tiredness it's hard to compete with medicine. I am afraid to go to my doctor because I don't want any more medications. I know these medications are saving my life but they are also killing me. When I die at least my doctor can say "Hey at least he didn't have cancer"!

[@renardargent6487]

I finished my radiology/hormone treatment early Jan '23. Still suffering hot flashes (but not as severely as others); mood swings (concerning); FATIGUE - lack of motivation to do anything; no energy to get back to the gym or walk, especially in high humidity; WEIGHT GAIN! My gut has blown up to a disgusting level & my normal diet of many years (89kgs) of no processed foods does not help in reducing my "beer barrel" belly! Pity no one tells us of at least ALL the KNOWN side effects :(

[@uk.andreea]

Hi! So happy I came across to this! My dad’s numbers are going up 4 years after operation. His body no longer responds to the injection. Was wondering if there is any diet or lifestyle protocol he can follow?

[@ThePCRI]

Hello, We have this playlist on "Royal" (advanced) stage prostate cancer that includes a few videos on diet and exercise. If you have any mode questions, feel free to contact our helpline at pcri.org/helpline. Advanced (Royal) Prostate Cancer: kzbin.info/aero/PLHj3V3RB2V-iRh_hnLqajcFpTXyVzW_Oi

[@terrycollett1461]

I’m eighty three years of age and I’ve had prostate cancer for thirteen years,I’m on hormone therapy treat m

[@russellaustin8453]

Just seen a video which says hormonal therapy brings on heart attacks and strokes ! Anyone here been on HT for some time ?

[@rjvagv1]

That is correct, even some have gone through getting bells palsy on Lupron. FDA knows this, but they do not care

[@sivaramaniyer1430]

In some cases Hormone therapy is working.Patient who are above 75are advised for Hormone therapy. They are asked to take life long Lupron hormone injection. The patient is oK and his PSA is less than 0.01for two years. Cancer is not comparable. Each patient is unique

[@BigZWD]

I came across that also but it stated it mostly applies to men with a heart condition already.

[@ClaudeWilson-ey3ji]

Yep I have Ben on tamsulosin and oxybutynin for 2 years .went to my doctor yesterday .it went up from 3 up to a 6 .so I don't no .?????

[@ridhimaagarwal6142]

I am a 41 year woman.. taking Casodex since 5 months for androgenic alopecia and acne. I know hair takes time to regrow but acne should have got better by now, but it did not. I don’t know what to do. Facing terrible dry skin, night sweats, muscles loss and headaches.

[@jimwells3279]

I have high-teal and have started 4 to 6 months of Lupron. I asked my doctor to prescribe Femara as Dr. Scholz recommended, however my Dr. gave me a prescription of Tamoxifen instead. Will Tamoxifen work as well as Femara or is Femara better? My brother has prostate cancer also and he suffered gynecomastia. Thank you. Jim

[@marinabereza1523]

Tamoxifen is chemotherapy for breast cancer. Maybe you need a second opinion.

[@lonnieke]

does fasting help

[@donnad3450]

My dad is 83 and has 4+3=7 prostate cancer can u explain hormonal theropy and radiation theropy

[@JDinky652]

With all these horrid side effects I wonder if castration with cosmetic testicle replacement (eunichs have as long a lifespan as intact men) is an option to consider.

[@spud-from-Nam]

In an 80 year old, where restoration of libido is not important, is Orcheoctomy a viable CHOICE?

[@jameslyman1377]

How long could all of these side effects last for someone who has a 6 month injection? I was just told I have a 4+3 Gleason 7.

[@robwells230]

They never warn you that it takes years to recover your testosterone if you are lucky..Up to 20 percent of older men NEVER RECOVER ABOVE CASTRATE LEVEL and remain castrated for life

[@Rockinrn]

Also, am somewhat anemic.

[@convectacool3132]

Can you please clarify whether this video is directed to long-term or short term ADT?

[@ThePCRI]

We did a version of your question here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZrZlZd4mZVkeM0

[@danmagoo]

After prostate surgery I've had 4 separate inguinal hernias, while doing ordinary activities including walking down the street (it was "open" surgery). These hernias have required surgical repair and additional insult to the abdominal wall. Now I may be facing recommendation for ADT. I can tell you I do NOT think it's a good idea for me to lift weights, and on top of that I have a history of heart disease, CABG and heart attack. Nobody wants to die from cancer, but I worry that ADT will be a disaster. I am hoping salvage radiation will be enough to stop the reoccurrence.

[@bigdaddy5948]

My doctor is trying to push me into lupron. 4+3. No spread. I just may refuse and do radiation alone. Im 70.

[@anilmehta6425]

Sir u didnt spoke about liver damage with flutamide n may be from other drugs which can cause death

[@DAGenao]

That's the problem with meds, they alleviate one problem and create many other problems. Why not try to solve the problem naturally through proper dieting?

[@RobX-nf5yt]

At the end of the video Dr Scholz mentions osteoperosis but says it's a big subject that will be covered in a seperate video. I've searched the channel and not found any video on that subject. Where can I find more information on this?

[@ThePCRI]

Hello RobX, here is the osteoporosis video Dr. Scholz spoke of: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aqW7fYycm9SGj7Mfeature=shared

[@RobX-nf5yt]

@@ThePCRI Thank you for this 👍🏻

[@johnhazelton7510]

Yes fatigue Yes no Libido (prolly the greatest loss). Yes hot flashes unbearable (on Effexor) Yes emotional swings practically cry at the drop of a hat. i might still be alive but I’m dead otherwise. Wish this would end

[@ThePCRI]

Hello, You are welcome to contact our free helpline if you have any questions about strategies for mitigating the side effects of hormone therapy. You can find our contact information at PCRI.ORG/helpline.

[@Rockinrn]

Just had my first Lupron shot 5 days ago and I feel nothing. Must take longer than a few days to feel the effects.

[@billwestervelt2393]

I didn't feel anything for the first 3 months. Now I am 6 months in and have noticed significant muscle loss in my legs (even with exercise) and loss of body hair. Not sure what to expect for the next 6 months or longer. I keep exercising and lifting weights - so far my upper body is doing OK thanks to the lifting.

[@Rockinrn]

@@billwestervelt2393 just had my second 3 month shot and I’m starting to feel more fatigued. Haven’t noticed significant muscle loss yet. Hot flushes appear to be more frequent. Don’t know if I can attribute this to the Lupron or the Xtandi. Hang in there.

[@Rockinrn]

I too am on Xtandi and Lupron. No major fatigue, muscle loss or weight gain. Sex drive- forget about it!

[@stephengreen369]

hi im 56 i had 3 shots of degarilx and had a bad reaction to it i have been sufferings for 4 months with no help from dr kim at Kelowna hospital BC i am now taking testosterone gel to try to stop some of the side effects THIS DRUG IS NOT REVERSABLE THIS HAS RUIED WHATS LEFT OF MY LIFE

[@claytonhubbard612]

So now that you’re gonna give somebody medication that increases your blood pressure you gotta give them blood pressure medication, which is a diuretic causing other problems

[@kathydawson5891]

Can you tell me how quickly the side effects of an injection of hormone therapy will be felt by the patient?

[@billwestervelt2393]

For me it was around 2 months. Good luck.

[@robwells230]

Only 3 percent of all men on ADT recover their testosterone to baseline by three months after ADT shots expire. Up to twenty percent of older men NEVER RECOVER ABOVE CASTRATE LEVEL and remain castrated for life

[@jimreagan6510]

Bone lost

[@rogerdodger5415]

Be wary of hormone therapy. I had Lupron. It damaged my brain. Trouble with memory, thinking, vision, balance, etc etc etc. Five years later I am still struggling with a damaged brain. It doesn’t happen to everybody but it happened to me. Think twice! Good luck 🍀👍!

[@rjvagv1]

You are very correct. Lupron has ruined my life.

[@cathum]

Good to know - I always ask my self if testosterone causes prostate cancer in old men, then why younger men having high testosterone do not get the cancer?

[@rogerembry4777]

@@cathum there are some men in their 30s and 40s that get prostate cancer, I was 55

[@andrewjones2133]

@@rogerembry4777 I was 40. I’m 53 now. Been dealing with prostate cancer on/off since 2010. I started taking Orgovyx last month on February 5th. I’m start my 2nd round of radiation therapy next month

[@pauloneal9642]

Will my testosterone recover at one point? I would really love to regain some of my manly life.

[@williamgibson1685]

Tell more im 73 on hormone therapy , not pleasant

[@Gord001ca]

I understand the logic in this treatment. However the side effects are nasty. I have managed to not gain weight, and not lost muscle mass by watching my diet and exercising. However the worst things are emotions and muscle sourness and joint pain. The lose of sex drive is absolutely unbelievable, I never though I could become so uninterested in the female. I just hope and pray when this is over that my live goes back to normal.

[@steveschram575]

How long have you been on the blockers brother? I hope you're well. I was supposed to start two years of Abiraterone w/ prednisone, and Lupron in December but I've been putting it off. I'm dreading it.

[@nld-bl5ct]

Will this therapy take away the unbelievable constant pain?

[@doctoreverything9727]

Re: ADT side effects and the liver... you did not finish the solution...

[@williamgibson1685]

Weight training omg

[@Rockinrn]

Had radiation for breast enlargement no big deal, one and done.

[@tywatts7834]

I asked for adderall Had to get meth smallest amount

[@helen4542]

What about mood swings, I know wives who say their husbands changed beyond recognition once on hormone treatment.

[@ThePCRI]

Hello Helen, Mood swings are briefly addressed at 7:06. If that is a problem, then it may be a good idea for men and their partners to discuss the use of medication to stabilize mood and/or to seek a referral to a therapist who has experience with these issues. If you have any more questions about maintaining quality of life while on hormone therapy or anything else related to prostate cancer, do not hesitate to contact our free helpline: pcri.org/helpline

[@JohnDoe-ef3nv]

@@ThePCRI so take more medication for side effects and then take more medication for those new side effects and then so on and so forth?

[@Rockinrn]

Not emotional, just a lot more irritable.

[@Bmeri3]

I have become very irritable.

[@michaellewis4629]

If you have never been on the ADT meds you really have no place talking about them. Medical professional or not. These meds are horrible from my first hand experience.

[@gordo46]

I wish I had known about some of this 12 years ago

[@ednope3991]

I'm the one guy who gave this a thumbs down, and I will explain why. Regarding the side effect of male enlarged breast tissue (permanently) he suggested the drug Femara (Letrozole). What he leaves out is that any Medical Oncologist will tell you that this side effect occurs in LESS THAN 2% of all cancer patients and MORE IMPORTANTLY that this particular drug will INCREASE the production of testosterone, which we all know is the "superfood" that cancer cells thrive on. So either this guy is oblivious or he deliberately left out this little tidbit of information. I would not be surprised if he was a shill for the drug company that manufactures this drug. And it kind of makes you question his other recommendations, doesn't it? At least double check with your Medical Oncologist before taking advice from this guy or any other similar individual who produces internet content... especially when he recommends a particular drug. It's really that simple.

[@ThePCRI]

Thanks for your input. We agree it is wise to get multiple professional opinions from medical professionals who are familiar with the specifics of one's case before starting on any new treatment. Every patient has a unique desired outcome and tolerance for side effects. However uncommon this side effect may be, it is important that people are made aware and given multiple solutions so they have the choice to take steps when it is deemed necessary.

[@russellaustin8453]

Hope you're right about the 2% Ed ! I start my HT in a couple of days !

[@robjames3864]

@@russellaustin8453 How has the hormone therapy worked out?

[@Invictus888]

I've got news for you. The Japanese have proven time and again that Estrogen and Estradiol are causing Prostate Cancer and Testosterone is a protective hormone to a man. After Gynecomastia surgery (caused by Zoladex) I am on Letrozole AND Testosterone. Most men that come down with Prostate Cancer have actually a low level of Testosterone but high on Estrogen and Estradiol.

[@peacefulruler1]

@@Invictus888 this isn’t about cancer prevention, but treatment when one already has cancer. Big difference

[@OscarGonzalez-vg3cp]

Business and lies result of my surgery.

[@koof1776]

Swim in the Fishbowl and Bank. Try to Focus on the Cause of PC going-forward doctor and not treating the the symptoms and side-effects of a half-dozen drugs pls!

[@michaelmottice8455]

I’m 55 diagnosed stage four metastatic Prostate cancer to the bone. Started hormone therapy and almost immediately felt my strength and stamina cut in half at least. At 53 I was powerlifting and had a 950 pound total now a couple sets of squats with 10 lbs dumbbells and I’m gassed 😢

[@nelsonoliva2119]

Man im sorry to hear , I recently got told I have elevated psa of 11 , and had biopsy and waiting for results.. its tough to deal with the unknown, may I ask what your psa was? Either way I hope you get all of the help you need to get through this.

[@michaelmottice8455]

My initial psa was 603 went down rapidly after starting hormone therapy but I became resistant after only four months. I also had allergic reaction to chemo. Now taking a new pill combo that is recently approved. Psa had bounced from 0.62 up to 25 now after a month on new drugs it’s down to 18. Stay positive and keep fighting.

[@nelsonoliva2119]

@@michaelmottice8455 Thank you man for sharing , Im so sorry to hear about your case, im 54 and even with a 10.8 Im feeling very anxious because it seems every site and every doctor has a different opinion. I hope your new treatment works...God bless.

[@kenb.9976]

I started to fatigue and loss of muscle mass 5 months before my diagnosis of stage3B cancer. ThTs when I knew something was wrong with me. Now on radiation therapy with just 13 left to. Currently get Lupron every 6 months and 750 mg of abriratetone

[@kenb.9976]

Sorry for typos……which I take daily and this stuff kicks my butt. This is not a fun journey to take, but it’s the only option other than doing nothings

[@kvniyer1]

Hot flashes are annoying. It comes and goes once in 3-4 hours and lasts a few minutes. All treatments for cancer have side effects.