Hormones are natural substances made by glands in our bodies. They are carried around our body in our bloodstream and act as messengers between one part of our body and another. 

Hormone therapy blocks or lowers the amount of hormones in the body to stop or slow down the growth of cancer. Doctors use it to treat some cancers such as breast and prostate cancer.

Hormone therapy for cancer

Some cancers use hormones to grow or develop. Hormone therapy works by blocking or lowering the amount of these hormones.

Side effects of hormone therapy in men

The side effects you might have depend on the type of hormone therapy that you are having. They usually settle down after a few weeks or months.

Side effects of hormone therapy in women

Many women find that the side effects are often worse at the start of treatment. They usually settle down after a few weeks or months.

Last reviewed: 
27 Feb 2024
Next review due: 
26 Feb 2027