However certain hormones can also trigger breast cancer or prostate cancer cells to divide and grow. Hormonal therapies work by lowering the levels of certain hormones in the body, or by preventing the hormones from being taken up by the cancer cells. This can slow down or stop the growth of the breast cancer or prostate cancer cells in the bone. Often these treatments can shrink the cancer and reduce, or get rid of, symptoms such as bone pain. There are many different types of hormonal therapy and they work in slightly different ways, so sometimes two different types of hormonal therapy may be given together.
Hormonal therapy is given in the form of tablets or injections.
Side effects Hormonal therapy can cause side effects for some people which can include hot flushes and sweats in both men and women. Although these can be quite mild for many people, on occasion they can be quite severe. As different drugs have different side effects, it is important to discuss the possible effects with your doctor before you start treatment. We would be pleased to send any that may be relevant to you. All rights reserved.