Hormonal Therapy
While many urologists dismiss hormonal therapy for prostate cancer until further research can be done, as of late it has become almost as popular as surgery. Prostate Cancer is believed to feed upon testosterone that is in the bloodstream, thereby spreading out from the prostate to other parts of the body. Drugs such as DES (diethisibestrol) which have a chemical composition similar to estrogen can help to cancel out the male hormones in the body.
While DES and other hormonal therapies like it can bring about relief from the symptoms and even a longer life, there are a number of drawbacks. Swapping male hormones for female ones can destroy a man's drive, leaving him totally impotent. Other side effects include enlarged breasts, thinning facial hair and even scrotal shrinkage.
Another form of hormonal therapy that can be used during the later stages of prostate cancer are the LH-RH Agonists known as Leuprolide anf Goserline. This is a synthetic pituitary hormone that has been designed to help regulate the release of testosterone into the bloodstream. It is administered through injections or pellet implants and it works by first triggering an initial rush of testosterone before cutting off the supply thereby starving the tumor. Side effects from this type of hormonal therapy include hot flashes, headaches and potential impotence.
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