What is androgen deprivation therapy done with?

Androgen deprivation therapy, often called ADT, reduces testosterone signalling that can support prostate cancer growth. GnRH agonist drugs act through the hormone-control system and are usually delivered as injections or implants on a planned schedule. The exact drug, timing, and duration depend on the cancer, treatment goal, and other health conditions.

ADT may be used around radiotherapy, after surgery, or when disease needs whole-body treatment. It can also be paired with another hormone-targeting medicine. Combining treatments is a clinical decision, not a standard choice for every person.

Tell your team about heart or blood-vessel problems, diabetes, bone weakness, mood changes, and every medicine or supplement you take. Ask how injections are scheduled and how hot flushes, sexual changes, tiredness, weight changes, and bone health will be monitored.

Keep appointments for blood tests and reviews. Regular movement suited to your fitness, strength activity when approved, balanced meals, and support for sleep or mood may help you manage treatment effects.

Contact your care team promptly for chest pain, new breathlessness, fainting, severe weakness, marked mood deterioration, or new severe bone pain. Seek urgent help for sudden neurological symptoms or inability to walk safely.

Ask why ADT is recommended, which drug will be used, what it will be combined with, how long it may continue, and which tests will show whether it is working.