For men whose prostate cancer has grown through the prostate capsule but has not metastasized (spread) to other organs, watchful waiting or radiation therapy with or without hormonal therapy are usually recommended.
For men with prostate cancer that has spread to other organs, doctors usually prescribe androgen-deprivation (hormone) therapy. Androgens are male sex hormones, such as testosterone. This treatment involves reducing levels of testosterone and other androgens that stimulate the prostate cancer to grow. Today, doctors most commonly use drugs to either block the effects of testosterone or stop the testicles from producing it. An alternative approach is to surgically remove the testicles in a procedure called an orchiectomy. Side effects of androgen-deprivation therapy include impotence, weight gain, decreased sex drive and osteoporosis. Some men experience hot flashes, which often can be controlled by medication.
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