Complications of androgen deprivation therapy: prevention and treatment.

Androgen deprivation, as a form of treatment for prostate cancer, has been used for decades. Within the last decade, however, its use has increased significantly. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the physician to be familiar with the side effects associated with this treatment. Some of these side effects (eg, osteoporosis, changes in lipid profiles, and anemia) may be associated with significant morbidity, whereas others (eg, impotence, decreased libido, fatigue, and hot flashes) primarily affect the patient's quality of life. Prevention strategies and treatments exist for many of these side effects. In addition, alternative forms of antiandrogen therapy such as intermittent hormone ablation and antiandrogen monotherapy may be effective, with the added benefit of minimizing side effects. This review focuses on the wide range of side effects associated with androgen ablation as well as preventive and treatment strategies.