Hormone Therapy
How is hormone therapy used to treat cancer?
Hormone therapy is an effective treatment for certain cancers that use naturally occurring hormones to grow, most commonly breast and prostate cancers. Hormones are substances produced by the body that help regulate functions such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction. When a cancer is hormone-sensitive, hormone therapy works by reducing hormone levels or blocking cancer cells from using those hormones, helping to slow, stop, or shrink tumor growth. Unlike chemotherapy, which targets rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, hormone therapy specifically targets the hormonal pathways that drive certain cancers, making it a more targeted treatment option for eligible patients.
Hormone therapy may be given as a pill, injection, or, in some cases, through procedures that reduce hormone production. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or other cancer treatments as part of a personalized care plan. The specific treatment approach depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as your individual health needs and treatment goals.
Why is hormone therapy to treat cancer effective?
Hormone therapy is effective because it targets one of the key drivers of cancer growth in hormone-sensitive tumors. By depriving cancer cells of the hormones they need to survive, treatment can:
- Slow or stop cancer growth
- Shrink tumors
- Reduce the risk of recurrence after treatment
- Help prevent cancer from spreading
- Control advanced or metastatic disease
- Improve long-term outcomes for many patients
For some patients, hormone therapy may be recommended for several years to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Your oncologist will discuss the expected benefits and treatment duration based on your individual diagnosis.
What are the common side effects of hormone therapy when treating cancer?
Because hormone therapy changes hormone levels in the body, side effects can vary depending on the medication prescribed and whether treatment is being used for breast cancer, prostate cancer, or another cancer type.
Common side effects may include:
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Decreased libido
- Weight changes
- Joint or muscle aches
- Vaginal dryness in women
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Bone thinning or osteoporosis with long-term treatment
Many patients find hormone therapy easier to tolerate than other cancer treatments, and most side effects can be managed effectively with support from your Virginia Cancer Specialists care team. It is important to discuss any symptoms you experience so adjustments or supportive therapies can be recommended when needed.
How Best to Prepare for Hormone Therapy
The best way to prepare for hormone therapy is to learn about your treatment plan and maintain open communication with your care team. Before treatment begins, your oncologist will discuss the expected benefits, potential side effects, and how your progress will be monitored during therapy.
During treatment, consider the following:
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Keep all follow-up appointments and recommended laboratory tests.
- Stay physically active, as appropriate, to support bone and overall health.
- Follow a balanced diet and maintain adequate calcium and vitamin D intake if recommended.
- Report new symptoms or side effects promptly.
- Ask questions and seek support whenever needed.
Your Virginia Cancer Specialists care team may also recommend bone density monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and/or a consult with our Supportive Cancer Care team to help you maintain quality of life throughout treatment.
Related Treatment Areas & Resources
Chemotherapy
Targeted Therapy
Radiation Therapy
Surgery to Treat Cancer
Ready to Make an Appointment?
If you have questions about whether this treatment or service may be right for you, make an appointment with the Virginia Cancer Specialists team.