Is androgen deprivation therapy done with GnRH agonist drugs?

GnRH agonists act on the hormone signalling system that controls testosterone production. They are commonly administered as injections at a schedule chosen by the treating team. At the start, testosterone can briefly rise before the body’s signalling pathway becomes suppressed. The clinician may use another medicine or other protection when this initial change could worsen symptoms.

Androgen deprivation therapy may be used alone or with surgery, radiotherapy, or other prostate cancer treatment. Lower testosterone can affect sexual function, erections, hot flushes, mood, energy, muscle, bone strength, and metabolic health, so follow-up is part of treatment.

Confirm which GnRH agonist is planned, how often it is given, and what happens if an injection is late. Ask how testosterone and prostate-specific antigen will be monitored, and discuss exercise, bone health, cardiovascular risk, mood, and sexual wellbeing before treatment starts.

Contact the treating team promptly for new severe bone pain, leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, or a major change in mood. Report troublesome injection-site swelling or allergic symptoms immediately, especially facial swelling or difficulty breathing.

Why is a GnRH agonist suitable for my treatment plan? Do I need protection during the initial testosterone rise? Which side effects should be monitored, and how will bone and heart health be supported?