What should you know about GnRH analogues in prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer cells may use testosterone signals to grow. GnRH agonists and antagonists act on the hormone pathway to reduce that signal; the exact medicine and schedule depend on the cancer and treatment aim. An agonist can cause a temporary hormone rise at the beginning, while an antagonist works through a different pathway. Hormone treatment may be used before or alongside radiotherapy, after surgery, or when cancer has spread. It is not the same as removing the prostate, and it may be combined with other systemic treatment.

Ask whether the medicine is intended for a limited course or longer-term control, and how it fits with imaging, blood tests, radiotherapy, or surgery. Report hot flushes, reduced sexual desire, tiredness, mood changes, weight or glucose changes, and new bone discomfort. The team may monitor hormone levels, prostate-specific tests, bone health, and cardiovascular risk. Continue scheduled injections or tablets as directed and discuss concerns before changing treatment.

Get urgent medical help for sudden leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe back pain, chest pain, fainting, or severe breathing difficulty. Difficulty passing urine also needs prompt assessment, especially with lower abdominal pain or inability to pass urine. These symptoms can have several causes and do not by themselves establish prostate cancer, but delay can be harmful.

Which analogue or hormone medicine is suitable for me? Is an initial hormone flare a concern? Could treatment be combined with radiotherapy, brachytherapy, surgery, or bone-strengthening therapy? What symptoms require an urgent call?