Androgen Deprivation Treatment Side Effects

Some men with prostate cancer choose androgen-deprivation treatment, also known as hormone treatment, to shrink or slow the cancer. The goal is to reduce the levels of male hormones because these hormones stimulate cancer cells to grow. Like most cancer treatments, androgen-deprivation therapy has side effects.

Sexual Side Effects

• Androgen deprivation can lower the libido.

  Many men who participate in androgen-deprivation treatment report a lower sexual libido or impotence, according to the American Cancer Society.

Physical Side Effects

• Hormone therapy may bring on osteoporosis, boosting the risks of bone fractures.

  This form of therapy can also cause the growth of breast tissue and cause osteoporosis, a thinning of the bones that increases the risks of broken bones. Some men also report tenderness in their breasts.

Physical Changes

• Men having androgen-deprivation treatment often gain weight.

  Androgen deprivation can also cause men to lose muscle mass and put on a significant amount of weight. They may also develop anemia.

Exhaustion

• Fatigue is a common side effect.

  Like many cancer treatments, androgen deprivation often leaves patients exhausted. Fatigue is an very common side effect of the treatment.

Mental Effects

• Support is necessary when cancer patients suffer from depression.

  Androgen deprivation may cause some men to suffer from depression. This is due to the chemical change it causes in the body.

Treating Side Effects

• Many of the side effects can be treated.

  The American Cancer Society says that many of the side effects of androgen-deprivation therapy can be treated. For instance, patients can take antidepressants or counseling to combat depression, or have brief radiation sessions to prevent their breasts from enlarging.