Can Some Men On Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) Experience A Reduction In Thyroid Hormone Levels?
(Reference: Cecchini L, et al. AUA Annual Meeting 2005; abstract #817, page 221.) It is easy to argue that ADT can improve the chances of living longer after being diagnosed with more advanced prostate cancer. However, since men are living longer on ADT for prostate cancer it seems that the side effects from this treatment are gaining more attention. This should not be surprising because men are using this therapy earlier and earlier and with a variety of treatments; therefore, side effects that can be prevented or treated should receive attention. In the old days (not that long ago), docs only gave ADT to men with very advanced prostate cancer, so side effects from this treatment were not really discussed because the more immediate issue was one of life and death. However, now some men are on or on and off this therapy for years and years so we are beginning to learn more and more about the side effects of ADT. For example, we all know that ADT can cause hot flashes in most men and no
