Management of complications of androgen deprivation therapy in the older man

Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2009 Jun;70(3):235-55. doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2008.09.004. Epub 2008 Oct 25.

Abstract

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in older men. With the aging of the population, the number of older men with prostate cancer will grow rapidly. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the mainstay of treatment for men with systemic disease and is increasingly utilized as primary therapy or in combination with other therapies for localized disease. Side effects of therapy are multifold and include hot flashes, osteoporosis, and adverse psychological and metabolic effects. Recent research has illustrated that ADT can negatively impact the functional, cognitive, and physical performance of older men. Patients with prostate cancer, despite recurrence of the disease, have a long life expectancy and may be subjected to the side effects of ADT for many years. This review highlights the complications of ADT and approaches to management. We also provide recommendations for assessment and management of ADT complications among the most vulnerable and frail older male patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgen Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Androgen Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Anemia / chemically induced
  • Anemia / therapy
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal / therapeutic use
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / chemically induced
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / therapy
  • Hot Flashes / chemically induced
  • Hot Flashes / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Metabolic Syndrome / chemically induced
  • Metabolic Syndrome / therapy
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / chemically induced
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / therapy
  • Osteoporosis / chemically induced
  • Osteoporosis / therapy
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / complications
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Quality of Life
  • Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / chemically induced
  • Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / therapy

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal