ZERO ® – ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER NEWS
WINTER 2024/2025
COPING WITH HORMONE THERAPY SIDE EFFECTS Living with prostate cancer is difficult to navigate day-to-day. Add in side effects from androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), and living with advanced prostate cancer can be even more of a burden. So how does one cope with the main side effects of ADT? Let’s tackle a few of the most common issues. Hot flashes – These can occur at any time of day but seem to be most bothersome at night when they wake folks from sleep or keep them up. They also tend to be more bothersome in warmer weather with increased activity. Sleeping with a fan on can help, and I have one patient who swears by a “cooling blanket.” Prescription medications, including gabapentin and venlafaxine, may decrease the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.
Meredith Morgan NP, MSN, ACNP-BC Rogel Cancer Center, Univ. of Michigan Member – ZERO Medical Medical Advisory Board
Fatigue – Patients often say that in the late afternoon/early evening, they have a “crash” in their energy level. The last thing you may want to do when you feel tired is exercise, but exercising really is the best thing for fatigue. Men are surprised to find that exercise gives them energy, rather than taking energy away. And never underestimate the power of an afternoon cat nap in a chair to recharge. Try not to rest too long (more than one hour or so), or you may have difficulty with sleep overnight. Decreased bone strength – We generally recommend calcium and Vitamin D supplements and weight-bearing exercises (like walking or using an elliptical). Some patients are prescribed medications like zoledronic acid or denosumab, depending on their particular situation, to help strengthen bones. A DEXA (bone density) scan can be done to evaluate bone strength. Weight gain/metabolic syndrome – Eating a healthy diet and exercising will help curb weight gain, but there is no denying that men may notice their abdomen getting bigger and arms/legs getting smaller on ADT. Low libido/erectile dysfunction (ED) – There are many medications, external or internal pumps, and injections that can help with ED. Unfortunately, there is not a lot we can currently do to increase libido. Mood swings – Men report feeling moodier – sometimes with a “shorter fuse” on ADT. Others feel sad or say they cry more easily. Some of this can be managed with coping strategies, but others may require an antidepressant. As caregivers or loved ones of patients on ADT, it is important to not only know common side effects but acknowledge them and not minimize their effect on quality of life. Patients can find tips from other patients and personal trial and error, but it is also important to talk to your provider if prescriptions or referrals are needed to help manage side effects.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT ADT?
Check out our ”Questions For Your Doctor: Hormone Therapy“ guide to start the conversation with your healthcare provider.
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