What should you know about sipuleucel-T for prostate cancer?

Sipuleucel-T is an individualised immunotherapy that trains immune cells to recognise and respond to prostate cancer. A blood sample is collected, immune cells are prepared in a specialised facility, and the treated cells are returned through an infusion. The process involves separate appointments, so the oncology team explains the schedule and checks whether it fits your treatment plan.

The cells are collected from your blood and exposed to a protein linked with prostate cancer before being given back to you. The aim is to help your immune system identify cancer cells. It is different from surgery, hormone treatment, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. Your suitability depends on the type and stage of prostate cancer, symptoms, previous treatment, general health, and local availability.

Ask the treatment centre how to prepare for cell collection and infusion, including medicines, travel, hydration, and who should accompany you. Report fever, infection symptoms, immune conditions, or recent treatment changes. During or after infusion, some people develop fever, chills, tiredness, headache, nausea, or muscle aches. Your team will explain which effects can be monitored at home and which need a call. Other prostate cancer options may include [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) or [Targeted Radioisotope Therapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/targeted-radioisotope-therapy/).

Contact the oncology service urgently for a high fever, shaking chills, trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, or swelling of the face or throat after treatment. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or signs of a serious allergic reaction. New difficulty passing urine also needs prompt clinical advice; a [Difficulty Passing Urine](/symptoms/difficulty-passing-urine/) page explains that symptom separately.

Ask why sipuleucel-T is being considered, how cell collection and infusion appointments are arranged, and which medicines could interfere with the plan. Ask how your response will be assessed, what side effects should be expected, and whether [Bone-Strengthening Therapy](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/bone-strengthening-therapy/) or another treatment is also being considered.