LH-RH
(Luteinising hormone-releasing hormone) Agonist Injections
These
drugs stop the release of a hormone
that sends signals to the testicles to produce
testosterone. It is a roundabout way of
switching off testosterone and therefore helps
to stop prostate cancer from growing. This is
as effective as an orchidectomy operation.
The injection can be given by your GP.
LH-RH
Agonist drugs cause an initial
surge in the testosterone level, which is
counteracted by a short course of anti
androgen tablets before and after the
first injection.
The
aim of "LH-RH Agonist injections" is to stop testosterone
being produced as this hormone helps prostate cancer to grow
What
are the risks and adverse side-effects of these injections?
• you will be impotent or unable to have an
erection, and lose your sex drive. This will be
reversed if you stop receiving the drug
•
you might experience hot flushes due to the
hormones
In
addition, this drug has to be given at regular intervals
requiring
a visit to your GP or clinic, for an indefinite period.
As each patient responds differently, it cannot be predicted
how long it will be effective for.
