Androgen suppression

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Rim Halaby, M.D. [2]

Synonyms and keywords: Androgen ablation; androgen deprivation; androgen deprivation therapy, ADT

Overview

Androgen suppression is a medical treatment to suppress or block the production or action of male sex hormones, typically in order to attempt to treat certain types of cancer that rely upon male hormones for its growth. Androgen suppression therapy, which includes GnRH agonist, antiandrogens and bilateral orchiectomy, is used for the treatment of prostate cancer. Androgen suppression therapy use has been associated with increased incidence of cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity, decreased insulin sensitivity and dyslipidemia.

Types of Androgen Suppression Therapy

• GnRH agonist
• Antiandrogens
• bilateral orchiectomy
• Treatment with female hormones

See also

• Castration
• Chemical castration

 This article incorporates public domain material from the U.S. National Cancer Institute document "Dictionary of Cancer Terms".