ANTI-CANCER
Finding The Hope
Cancer Treatment
There are various forms of cancer treatment available, and the specific treatment regimen you receive will be determined by the type and stage of your cancer.
While some cancer patients may undergo a single treatment, most receive a combination of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Facing cancer treatment can be an overwhelming and confusing experience, but it's essential to educate yourself and have open communication with your doctor. By learning about the various types of treatment available and discussing your options with your healthcare provider, you can feel more empowered and in control.
Hormone Therapy- Cancer Treatment
Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that is used for certain types of cancer that are hormone-sensitive. Hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer, are cancers that grow in response to hormones, such as estrogen or testosterone.
Hormone therapy works by blocking the production or action of hormones that are involved in the growth of cancer cells. This article provides an overview of hormone therapy, including the types of hormone therapy, the methods of administration, and the side effects associated with treatment.
Types of Hormone Therapy
There are several types of hormone therapy that are used in cancer treatment, including:
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): SERMs are drugs that block the effects of estrogen in the body. They are used for hormone-sensitive breast cancer and may also be used to prevent the development of breast cancer in women who are at high risk. Examples of SERMs include tamoxifen and raloxifene.
- Aromatase inhibitors (AIs): AIs are drugs that block the production of estrogen in the body. They are used for hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Examples of AIs include anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane.
- Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists: LHRH agonists are drugs that block the production of hormones that stimulate the production of testosterone or estrogen. They are used for hormone-sensitive prostate cancer and may also be used for certain types of breast cancer. Examples of LHRH agonists include leuprolide and goserelin.
- Anti-androgens: Anti-androgens are drugs that block the effects of testosterone in the body. They are used for hormone-sensitive prostate cancer and may also be used in combination with other hormone therapies for certain types of breast cancer. Examples of anti-androgens include bicalutamide and flutamide.
Methods of Administration
Hormone therapy drugs can be administered in several different ways, including:
- Oral: Oral hormone therapy involves taking the drugs in the form of pills or capsules.
- Injection: Injection hormone therapy involves injecting the drugs directly into the patient's muscle, under their skin, or into a vein.
- Implant: Implant hormone therapy involves inserting a small pellet containing the hormone therapy drug under the patient's skin.
- Topical: Topical hormone therapy involves applying a cream or gel containing the hormone therapy drug to the skin.
The method of administration will depend on the type of cancer being treated, the stage of the disease, and other factors such as the patient's overall health and personal preferences.
Side Effects of Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy can cause a range of side effects, some of which may be severe. The side effects can vary depending on the type of hormone therapy being used, the dose and frequency of treatment, and other factors such as the patient's age and overall health.
Some of the most common side effects of hormone therapy include:
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Vaginal dryness or discharge
- Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety
- Bone loss or osteoporosis
- Increased risk of blood clots or stroke
Some of the more severe side effects of hormone therapy include:
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Liver damage
- Allergic reactions
- Blood disorders, such as anemia or low platelet count
- Cognitive changes, such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating
Hormone therapy - Cancer treatment
Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that is used for certain types of cancer that are hormone-sensitive. Hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer, are cancers that grow in response to hormones, such as estrogen or testosterone. Hormone therapy works by blocking the production or action of hormones that are involved in the growth of cancer cells. There are several types of hormone therapy that are used in cancer treatment, including SERMs, AIs, LHRH agonists, and anti-androgens. Hormone therapy drugs can be administered in several different ways, and the method of administration will depend on the type of cancer being treated and other factors. However, hormone therapy can cause a range of side effects, some of which may be severe. It is important for patients to discuss the potential side effects of hormone therapy with their healthcare provider and to report any side effects they experience during treatment.