Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers found in men, with an estimated 1 in 9 men being diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lives.

There are several treatment options available for prostate cancer, including radiation therapy, hormone therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy. However, recent studies have shown that combining these treatments with an oral medication can enhance the efficacy of prostate cancer therapy.

What is oral treatment for prostate cancer?

Oral treatment for prostate cancer involves taking medication in the form of pills or capsules. These medications work by targeting specific proteins or hormones that are involved in the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells.

One example of an oral medication used in prostate cancer therapy is abiraterone acetate. This medication is designed to target androgen hormones, which are known to stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Abiraterone acetate is usually used in combination with prednisone, which helps to minimize the side effects of the medication.

How does oral treatment enhance prostate cancer therapy?

Combining oral medication with other forms of prostate cancer therapy can yield several benefits. For one, oral medication can help to attack prostate cancer cells from multiple angles, increasing the chances of successfully killing them off.

Additionally, oral medication can help to improve the effectiveness of other treatments by making the cancer cells more susceptible to being targeted by radiation or chemotherapy.

Furthermore, because oral medication is taken orally, it can be administered at home rather than in a hospital or clinic setting. This can save patients time and money, as well as reduce the stress and inconvenience of undergoing treatment.

What are the side effects of oral treatment for prostate cancer?

Like any medication, oral treatment for prostate cancer can come with side effects. Common side effects of abiraterone acetate include fatigue, joint pain, and swelling in the legs or feet.

In rare cases, the medication can cause liver damage or high blood pressure.

However, it’s important to note that not all patients will experience side effects from oral treatment, and in many cases, the benefits of the treatment outweigh the risks.

Who is eligible for oral treatment for prostate cancer?

Oral treatment for prostate cancer is typically reserved for patients with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. However, it may also be used in men with earlier stage prostate cancer if other treatments have not been effective.

Additionally, oral treatment may not be suitable for all patients. Patients with liver or kidney disease, for example, may not be able to take certain medications.

It’s important for patients to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their specific situation.

Conclusion

Oral treatment can be a valuable tool in the fight against prostate cancer. By combining medication with other forms of therapy, patients can increase their chances of successfully treating their cancer and improving their quality of life.

However, as with any medical treatment, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and side effects.

Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their particular situation.