Hormone therapy for prostate cancer

Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists

leuprorelin, goserelin, buserelin, triptorelin

These drugs work by mimicking the action of the gonadotrophin hormone, which then signals your body to stop the production of testosterone. GnRH agonists are given by injection or as an implant placed under the skin in the abdominal area, arm or buttocks every month to six months. When they are first given, they usually cause a short-term increase in the production of testosterone which is known as a tumour flare. Your doctor may prescribe a course of anti-androgen tablets to prevent this.

Anti-androgens

apalutamide, bicalutamide, cyproterone, enzalutamide, flutamide, nilutamide

These drugs are also known as androgen receptor antagonists. They work by attaching themselves to protein receptors on the surface of prostate cancer cells, which prevents testosterone attaching to them and stimulating their growth. They are often used in combination with GnRH agonist drugs and are given orally as tablets or capsules once daily.

• Abiraterone – This is a newer type of anti-androgen drug that stops the production of testosterone by the adrenal glands. It is usually given when other anti-androgen drugs have not been effective or are no longer effective. It is taken orally as a tablet once daily and is usually taken together with a steroid drug such as prednisolone to reduce possible side effects