Managing complications of androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer

With the increase in the number of prostate cancer cases seen in the United States, the use of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) as a form of treatment has continued to rise. With the increasing use of ADT, it is important for the urologist to recognize the potential side effects from the use of ADT and ways in which to minimize or eliminate the risks from these side effects. This article describes the potential complications of ADT and the recommendations for treatment or prevention of these complications. In addition,we examine the role of nontraditional forms of ADT and the potential benefits they offer.