The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your healthcare provider if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your healthcare provider, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

The type of treatment you will have will depend on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor, your age, and overall condition. The main prescription drug therapies used to treat prostate cancer are hormonal therapies.

Hormonal Therapy

Prostate cells need male hormones, called androgens, to grow and work properly. The aim of hormonal therapy is to reduce the amount of male hormones in your body so that prostate cells are not stimulated to grow. The most effective hormonal therapy is by surgical removal of the testes (bilateral orchiectomy). This is simple and effective, but irreversible. Often hormonal therapies are combined to achieve greater effects.

There are several different types of prescription hormonal therapies, including:

Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs

  • Leuprolide (Lupron)
  • Goserelin (Zoladex)

Anti-androgens

  • Flutamide (Eulexin)
  • Bicalutamide (Casodex)
  • Nilutamide (Nilandron)

Androgen suppressants

  • Ketoconazole (Nizoral)

Luteinizing Hormone-releasing Hormone (LHRH) Analogs (also called Partial Agonists)

Common names include:

  • Leuprolide (Lupron)
  • Goserelin (Zoladex)

These medications decrease the production of the male hormone, testosterone, from your testicles. These medications are given by injection into a muscle every 3 or 4 months.

Possible side effects include:

  • Impotence
  • Hot flashes
  • Loss of sexual desire
  • Osteoporosis
  • Fatigue

Anti-androgens

Common names include:

  • Flutamide (Eulexin)
  • Bicalutamide (Casodex)
  • Nilutamide (Nilandron)

Anti-androgens prevent your body from using the male hormones, called androgens, that are made by your body. These medications are given by pill.

Possible side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Breast growth or tenderness

Androgen Suppressants

Common name: ketoconazole (Nizoral)

Ketoconazole blocks the production of androgens. It is considered a second-line hormonal treatment and is usually used when other medications are not working.

With long-term use, ketoconazole may cause liver problems.

Special Considerations

Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:

  • Take them as directed—not more, not less, not at a different time.
  • Do not stop taking them without consulting your healthcare provider.
  • Don’t share them with anyone else.
  • Know what effects and side effects to expect, and report them to your healthcare provider.
  • If you are taking more than one drug, including over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements, be sure to check with a physician or pharmacist about drug interactions.
  • Plan ahead for refills so you don’t run out.